CITY OF WATERTOWN FIRE DEPARTMENT

224 SOUTH MASSEY STREET

WATERTOWN, NEW YORK 13601
OFFICE: 315-785-7800
FAX: 315-785-1821

To: Media
From: Chief Matthew Timerman
Date: August 26, 2022
Re: Press Release – FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program

The City of Watertown Fire Department has been notified that our grant application to the
Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program has been
approved!

The request was for funding to replace our aged Plymovent

exhaust systems. These systems capture exhaust from fire
apparatus running inside the stations and routes it outside
the buildings. These systems greatly reduce employee
exposure to carcinogenic exhaust gases and particulate
matter. Our current systems are 21 years old (Station #1)
and 19 years old (Stations 2 & 3) and are due for
replacement. They are worn out and lately have required
several expensive repairs to keep them operational. The
overall project budget is projected to be $199,999 -
$181,817.27 in federal funds, $18,181.73 in local funds. The
project calls for replacement of the Plymovent systems at all
three stations. Replacement of these systems will not only
ensure a clean, safe environment for our employees, but will
also keep the strain from costly maintenance and repairs off
future budgets for years to come.

The department would like to thank the FEMA staff, and

US Senator Charles Schumer and his staff for their help
and support in making this project a reality.

Matthew Timerman

Fire Chief
Watertown Fire Department
224 South Massey Street
Watertown, NY 13601
315.785.7800