Elmhurst Fire Department Gets Grant for Water Rescue Suit

Elmhurst Fire Department will be able to purchase a water rescue suit thanks to a grant by Illinois American Water. The IAW 2013 Firefighter Grant Program provides financial assistance to fire and emergency organizations serving communities in its service areas. 

Deputy Chief William Anaszewicz recently accepted the $1,000 check for the water rescue suit, which will protect firefighters during a water rescue emergency.

The IAW grant program will distribute about $73,000 this year to 75 fire departments.

“We are committed to supporting our local fire departments,” said Karla Olson Teasley, president of IAW. “This program enables us to further support fire protection in the communities we serve and partner with our local firefighters.”

Grants of up to $1,500 are awarded to cover costs associated with:

• personal protective gear
• communications equipment
• firefighting tools
• water handling equipment
• training and related activities/materials used to support community fire protection
• reimbursement for specific fire training classes, including training manuals and workbooks

IAW is an investor-owned water utility that provides water and/or wastewater services to more than 1.2 million people.