Kewanee is set to enhance its fire safety services, thanks to $166,666 awarded through FEMA’s Fire Prevention and Safety grant program to install Knox Boxes on eligible businesses in Kewanee. Congressman Eric Sorensen emphasized the importance of investing in prevention, saying these funds will help save lives before emergencies occur. The grant enables the Kewanee Fire Department to launch a Community Risk Reduction Plan focused on businesses and public buildings, allowing the fire department access to a business without the need to break a window or force open a door. The Kewanee Fire Department also received $203,561.66 through FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant to purchase three new automatic external defibrillators (AEDs), which are already in service throughout the city. The old AEDs will be sold for around $6,500 each.
“Fire prevention saves lives before emergencies happen,” said Congressman Sorensen. “This grant will help Kewanee invest in proactive safety efforts that protect our neighbors and first responders.”
“Through the use of these grant funds, the Kewanee Fire Department will be able to initiate a Community Risk Reduction Plan aimed at all businesses and public access buildings in the city of Kewanee. We will now be able to fortify the fire prevention aspects of public safety that would have otherwise been financially unattainable.” Kewanee Fire Chief, Stephen Welgat said.
The Kewanee Fire Department is launching a new program to enhance emergency response for local businesses. Thanks to a FEMA Fire Prevention and Safety Grant, free Knox Boxes are now available for eligible commercial properties. These secure key boxes, installed by the department, allow firefighters quick, damage-free access to buildings during urgent situations. Fire Chief Stephen Welgat says the initiative not only protects property but also improves safety for both business owners and first responders. For businesses interested in applying, details can be obtained by calling 309-852-2115. The department oversees all installation and placement of the boxes. The installation process will go by quadrants and will likely be complete by this Fall.
The grant covers over 300 Knox Boxes and the cost for fire department personnel to install the boxes, and a dozen businesses have contacted the Kewanee Fire Department to have a Knox Box installed. “This program allows us to better serve our community while increasing safety for both occupants and first responders,” said Fire Chief Stephen Welgat. “Thanks to this FEMA grant, we are able to provide Knox Boxes at no cost to eligible businesses.” Chief Welgat emphasized that only the Fire Department will have the key for the key lock boxes, and not all personnel will have access to the keys.