INDIANA – First responders statewide, including local fire and police departments and emergency management agencies in south-central Indiana, have received grants from the Duke Energy Foundation. The funding, which totals nearly $300,000 for organizations across the state, is being recognized during Indiana’s annual Winter Weather Preparedness Week.
Why it matters
- During major emergencies and natural disasters, local emergency management agencies play a critical role in providing information, resources, and support that Duke Energy relies on to speed power restoration for its customers.
- The grants will help public safety agencies increase their response capabilities during severe weather and other emergencies through advanced preparation, planning, equipment, and training.
Local impact
In south central Indiana, the shareholder-funded Duke Energy Foundation grants have been awarded to the following organizations:
Lawrence County Emergency Management Agency
$5,000 to purchase weather radios for distribution throughout the community, with an emphasis on older residents and people who live in mobile homes
Monroe County Emergency Management Agency
$5,500 for a water safety program supporting the Monroe Fire Protection District’s launch of life jacket loaner stations at two Indiana Department of Natural Resources properties
Orange County Emergency Management Agency
$5,500 for mobile emergency communication equipment to enhance communications capabilities in rural areas
Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Office
$5,000 to buy tools that help first responders to gain entry in emergency situations
Brown County Emergency Management Agency
$5,500 to purchase radio programming equipment, provide training on radio reprogramming, and relocate communication infrastructure to a more permanent location within Brown County State Park
Clifford Fire Department (Bartholomew County)
$10,000 to replace mobile radios on fire equipment
Crawford County Emergency Management Agency
$5,500 for upgrades to the emergency operations center, including modernized severe weather monitoring, operational improvements, and security measures
Owen County Community Foundation
$5,500 for the “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” safety campaign
