West Chester, Pa (Mayo 16, 2025) – Volunteers at Alert Fire Company No. 1 in Downingtown are getting new portable radios thanks to state grant funding secured by state Senator Carolyn Comitta.
The funding, which comes through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, will support the purchase of 16 Kenwood portable radios. The investment means that Alert will now have enough radios to provide one per firefighter when responding to emergencies.
“These radios are used on every call—whether responding to fires, accidents, medical emergencies, or other critical incidents. They are more than just a convenience; they are a lifeline for our firefighters in the field,” said Lt. Tyler Smith of Alert Fire Company. “Without radios, we face an increased risk of miscommunication, delayed response times, and, ultimately, a threat to the safety of both our firefighters and the public.”
“In an emergency, timely communication is crucial, especially for our first responders,” Comitta said. “I was proud to help secure this investment so that every firefighter at Alert has the tools and technology they need to do their jobs safely, efficiently, and effectively. And I want to thank all the volunteer firefighters serving our communities in the Downingtown Fire Department, and throughout Chester County.”
Comitta also thanks state Rep. Danielle Friel Otten for her support of and advocacy in securing the new equipment.
Dating back to 1887, Alert Fire Company is a non-profit, 100 percent volunteer, full-service fire and heavy rescue organization, providing care to the residents of Downingtown Borough, East Caln Township, and the surrounding areas.
It, along with Minquas Fire Co. No. 2, is one of two fire companies that make-up the Downingtown Fire Department.
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