U.S. Congressman Hal Rogers (KY-05) announced today that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded Wayne County EMS $37,145 to purchase 3 power cots and 3 stair chairs for EMS rescue operations. These devices assist emergency medical technicians (EMT) in quickly aiding a person down a flight of stairs and into an ambulance with reduced likelihood of EMT or patient injury.

“Whether it’s responding to an accident or a medical emergency, modern, state-of-the-art technology is essential for our first responders to do their jobs safely and effectively,” stated Rogers. “I continue to be impressed by the valuable partnership forged between FEMA and the rural communities in our region of southern and eastern Kentucky. This investment by FEMA will go a long way towards increasing public safety and emergency response in Wayne County.”

Through FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grants Program, Wayne County will purchase new power cots and stair chairs which are essential for transporting victims in an emergency. The primary goal of the Assistance to Firefighters Grants is to meet the firefighting and emergency response needs of fire departments and nonaffiliated emergency medical service organizations. Since 2001, these grants have helped firefighters and other first responders obtain critically needed equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training, and other resources needed to protect the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards.

Rogers currently serves as a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee. Through this role, Rogers supports important initiatives in the Fifth Congressional District.