NORWICH – With the good fortune of obtaining FEMA grants in the past, the Norwich Fire Department is currently awaiting the approval of another that would allow the purchase a new ambulance without dipping into the city’s reserves.

This is the first year that FEMA has offered grant money for the purchase of a new ambulance, said Fire Chief Tracy Chawgo. Previously, FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant has provided the station with communications equipment, EKG monitors and other needed gear, but this will be the first time FEMA has recognized ambulance services as a primary component among fire departments, which is good news particularly in rural areas, said Chawgo.

“The amount in funding received depends on the needs of each individual department,” Chawgo said. He went on to say that like many other FEMA grant programs, “it’s a competitive process. Anyone doing fire and EMS in the US can apply for one.”

If approved, the city would be eligible to receive $180,000 toward the purchase of a new ambulance, not only saving the city the cost of a new ambulance, but also the additional costs of routine maintenance as it would be covered under warranty.