U.S. Representative Rick Boucher announced on Jan. 24 that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is providing a federal grant in the amount of $87,750 to the Blacksburg Fire Department.

With the benefit of the federal funds, the department will purchase two exhaust removal systems that will be installed in the department’s two fire stations. The new systems will improve the safety of firefighters by removing hazardous gases from the fire station that form due to vehicle exhaust. Neither of the two stations has been previously equipped with exhaust removal systems.

“I am pleased that the Department of Homeland Security has provided this funding to the Blacksburg Fire Department. It is important to ensure the safety of our fire and rescue personnel,” Boucher said.

The Blacksburg Fire Department provides protection to a 110 square mile area in Montgomery County including the Town of Blacksburg, Virginia Tech, and the surrounding areas. The department is made up of 40 volunteers and two paid members.