SONOMA, Calif. (Dec. 11, 2006) – Heffernan Group and Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company will award a $40,000 grant to the Sonoma Valley Fire & Rescue Authority to fund the purchase of new mobile computer systems.
The department will purchase five systems to be installed on two ambulances and three fire engines. The computers, which are GPS equipped, will automatically navigate the quickest route to an incident, find the nearest fire hydrant, and show any pre-plan that may be in place for the occupancy.
“The purchase of these systems would not have been possible without the help of Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company,” said Fire Chief John Keane. “This technology will make our crews safer, improve the efficiency of how we deploy resources, and enhance the quality of service we provide our residents.”
Chief Keane, Sonoma Valley firefighters, along with representatives of Heffernan Group and Fireman's Fund will come together for a special grant presentation event, where the new computers will be displayed:
This equipment is being paid for by Fireman’s Fund, a premier property and casualty insurance company, which provides grants to fire departments through its Fireman’s Fund HeritageSM program. Through this initiative, insurance agencies like Heffernan are able to direct grants to assist and support local communities.
“It’s always great to be able to give back to the community, but it means so much more to give back to those who risk their lives protecting ours,” said Mike Heffernan, president of Heffernan Group. “These new computer systems will help the brave men and women of Sonoma Valley Fire & Rescue Authority as they respond to emergency calls and we are happy to know the firefighters have another tool to help them meet the demands they face everyday.”