Congressman Dan Lipinski (IL-3) is announcing that the Cicero Fire Department has been awarded $123,810 through the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program.  The grant will help purchase 2,600 combination carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.

“These simple, relatively inexpensive devices have the potential to save many lives,” stated Rep. Lipinski.  “The equipment the fire department will purchase is designed to last ten years without the need to replace the power source.  I’m pleased to help bring more of these life-saving devices to the residents of Cicero.”

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant program provides needed federal funds to fire departments and emergency medical service organizations in order to improve the response capabilities of our nation’s first responders and the safety of our communities.

Cicero Town President Larry Dominick joined Cicero officials including Assessor Emilio Cundari, Collector Fran Reitz and trustees Dennis Raleigh, Bob Porod, Victor Garcia and Larry Banks in accepting the check. Fire Commissioner Dominick Buscemi thanked the congressman and said the money would go to purchase combination smoke/carbon monoxide detectors that are given to residents in Cicero free-of-charge.

“We distribute thousands of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to our residents free of charge every year to help them make their homes and lives safer,” Buscemi said.

“We appreciate the support and help from Congressman Lipinski to receive this grant which will allow us to replenish our stock of detectors to give to residents.”

Cicero President Larry Dominick thanked Lipinski for his support and said, “Congressman Lipinski has always made Cicero a priority in terms of providing services and support that we need and we are glad to have him here today.”

The check presentation was made at the Cicero Fire Department headquarters at 5330 W. 25th Street in Cicero on Thursday morning.