Bloomfield seeks money for firefighters

FARMINGTON, N.M. (AP) - The Bloomfield Fire Department is hoping federal funds can lead to new equipment purchases and salaries and benefits for nine additional firefighters.

Fire Chief George Duncan said the addition would give the department four firefighters on duty at all times, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Duncan said the full-time firefighters would complement the nearly 30 volunteers the department uses and cut response time on calls.

The money will also help the department replace worn protective gear and replace outdated radio equipment.

The grants help supplement the money the department receives from the State Fire Fund and the city's operating budget.

The City Council will have final say if the department receives the federal funding because the city would be responsible to pay the salaries after the grant funding runs out.

Information from: The Daily Times