The Parsons Fire Department will receive $45,650 from the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program through the department of Homeland Security. Parsons is only one of 16 departments across the state of Kansas who received first round funding through the program. In total, 929 grants were awarded in January. 

With these grant funds, Parsons Fire will purchase and install five source capture diesel exhaust filtration systems to scrub the air, removing exhaust fumes from the engines. 

"This grant will improve the health and welfare of our firemen," said Fire Chief, Larry Steeby. 

The current fire department building was constructed nearly 70 years ago and could not easily be retrofitted with an exhaust hose collection system for all of the equipment. The source capture filtration systems will be installed on the individual equipment, which can be used at either fire station. 

 "In addition to cleaner air for our employees or anyone visiting the fire station, these filtration systems are designed to decrease the amount of soot, which in turn will extend station equipment life," said Kari West, City of Parsons Public Information Officer. 

The total budget for this project is $45,650. The Fire Act Grant will fund 95% ($43,367.50) while the Parsons Fire Department would pay only 5% ($2,282.50).