Whitewater Fire & EMS is pleased to announce it has received a combined $2,500 in grant funding from the WE Energies Foundation and Alliant Energy to help purchase new gas detection equipment that will enhance responder and community safety.

The WE Energies Foundation awarded Whitewater Fire & EMS a $2,000 Rewarding Responder Grant, while Alliant Energy provided a $500 community grant in support of the department’s Gas Leak Detection from a Safer Distance initiative.

The funding will help offset the cost of a new Sensit LZ30 Remote Gas Detector, valued at approximately $14,442. The equipment will allow firefighters to detect and assess certain gas leaks from a greater distance, helping crews gather critical information while reducing their exposure to potentially hazardous environments.

“Investments in equipment like this directly support the safety of our firefighters and the residents they serve,” said Whitewater Fire & EMS Chief Kelly Freeman. “We are grateful to the WE Energies Foundation and Alliant Energy for recognizing the importance of providing first responders with the tools they need to respond safely and effectively.”

Whitewater Fire & EMS will also dedicate proceeds from its annual Pancake Breakfast toward the purchase of the new detector, allowing community members to play a direct role in helping the department reach its funding goal.

Whitewater Fire & EMS extends its appreciation to the WE Energies Foundation and Alliant Energy for their generous support and continued investment in public safety.