The Register-Herald, Beckley, West Virginia

Local News

September 11, 2008

Byrd pulls down $260,000 for interoperable communications

Using the 9/11 tragedy as a springboard, Sen. Robert C. Byrd disclosed a $260,000 outlay Thursday to implement West Virginia’s interoperable emergency communications systems.

Funded through the Department of Homeland Security, the grant is a new one provided across the nation and authorized in the 9/11 Act.

“On this seventh anniversary of 9/11, we are reminded of our moral obligation to provide first responders with the tools they need to respond in an emergency situation,” Byrd said.

Byrd, who chairs the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security and the full appropriations panel, said he understands how vital interoperable communications are among first responders.

“When an emergency occurs, it is critically important that local fire departments, law enforcement agencies and emergency medical services be able to communicate with each other on the scene,” the West Virginia Democrat said.

“The reliability of their communications equipment and emergency planning can be a matter of life and death.”

Planning, training and exercise funding are provided through the Interoperable Emergency Communications Grant Program.

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