FORT WORTH – Today, Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Chad Wolf invited Top Appropriations Committee Republican Kay Granger (R-TX) to tour the Fort Worth Fire Department Training Academy, conducting oversight of the personnel and training facilities. After the tour and a press conference, which they were joined by Fort Worth Mayor Betsy Price, Fort Worth Fire Chief Jim Davis, and the President and Chairman of the Board of the International Association of Fire Chiefs Gary Ludwig, Ranking Member Granger and Acting Secretary Wolf released the following statements.

"Firefighters are essential, heroic members of our community who risk their lives to protect our own. As the coronavirus pandemic persists in our community, we have seen our firefighters go above and beyond to help neighbors in need, including through the Fort Worth Fire Department’s partnership with Battelle in the mass decontamination of N-95 masks for healthcare workers and first responders,” said Ranking Member Granger.

“Our fire services are only as strong as those who are willing to selflessly protect our communities. FEMA’s ‘SAFER’ grants help fire departments recruit and retain the next generation of firefighters and ensure our brave men and women are equipped with the best resources possible."

"Firefighting organizations represent our hometown heroes, risking their lives to keep our communities safe,” said Acting Secretary Wolf. “While bravely answering the call during the COVID-19 pandemic, many of these departments are seeing increased personnel costs. Through our decisive actions on SAFER grants, DHS is continuing its commitment to support our local partners during this difficult time and making sure they have the resources they need to carry out their critical missions."

Please contact the office of Congresswoman Granger for additional photos and information.