Members of the Haverhill Fire Department (including new recruits Christian Dion and Gregory Ryan, pictured here) can enhance educational offerings across the city thanks to a new state grant of nearly $10,000. (Courtesy photograph)
Haverhill is one of more than 245 fire departments across the Commonwealth to receive state funding for fire education programs designed for students and seniors, the Baker-Polito Administration and state Department of Fire Services said Friday.
Methuen, Georgetown and Groveland’s fire departments will also benefit from grant money.
Local funds will go to Student Awareness of Fire Education training—called SAFE—with departments working alongside classroom teachers to deliver fire safety tips and life-saving strategies. A similar program designed for seniors will also be enhanced in the City of Haverhill using $3,000 in grant money.
“In its fifth year, the Senior SAFE Program is supporting fire educators who deliver fire safety education to seniors who are most at risk of dying in fires in Massachusetts,” Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito said in a statement.
The Haverhill Fire Department already offers free safety inspections of seniors’ homes and apartments. To book an appointment to speak with a firefighter who will also offer tips to avoid fires at home, seniors can call 978-373-8460.