BARAGA — U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters Tuesday announced $677,738 for the Village of Baraga Fire Department to purchase new self-contained breathing apparatuses.

This grant comes from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Assistance to Firefighters Grants program.

“Our firefighters in Baraga put their lives on the line to protect our families, homes, and communities,” said Stabenow in a release. “These new resources will give our first responders the equipment they need to better serve the public and do their jobs more safely and effectively.”

Peters said in the release: “Firefighters and first responders are on the front lines, ensuring our communities are safe when emergencies strike. These federal funds will help ensure first responders in Baraga have the resources and equipment needed to do their jobs safely and effectively.”

Eligible fire departments and Emergency Medical Services organizations in Michigan and across the country can apply for Assistance to Firefighters Grants. These competitive grants help first responders purchase the equipment and obtain the training needed to handle fire-related hazards. More information about the grant can be found at http://www.fema.gov/firegrants.