Wes Hickman (202-224-5972) or Kevin Bishop (864-250-1417)

WASHINGTON -- U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham and Jim DeMint today announced Cooley Springs Fire Department in Chesnee will receive a $142,000 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Program grant. The SAFER Program assists in the hiring of full time firefighters and supports the recruitment and retention of volunteer fire fighters. “Firefighters and emergency service personnel dedicate themselves to protecting the health and safety of South Carolinians,” said Graham. “These grants will help our local fire departments by providing them the means to recruit and retain dedicated professionals.” “South Carolina's firefighters risk their lives to protect our families every day. I'm pleased they have been awarded these competitive grants that will assist in hiring more firefighters,” said Senator DeMint. The grants are made by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. ####