DOYLESTOWN, PA - In support of the First Responder community, the National Demolition Association joined in with the Fireman's Fund Insurance Company and Apollo General Insurance Agency to present funds for much needed fire department equipment to the Waveland, MS, Fire Department, which was devastated by Hurricane Katrina. The $36,000 grant was made recently at the National Demolition Association Convention in Las Vegas.

"Just as we show our solidarity with First Responders every day by providing skilled support to them when disasters strike, we are happy to see that we are also making a financial difference to a fire department that was struck so hard by the hurricane," said Michael R. Taylor, CAE, Executive Director of the Association.

Following the hurricane, the Waveland Fire Department found that all of its equipment and fire engines were ruined and both fire stations were destroyed. Because tax revenue coming into Waveland was so dramatically reduced after the disaster with the loss of so many homes, it was nearly impossible for the department to purchase much needed equipment, according to its Fire Chief David Garcia. Waveland is a resort town located on the Mississippi coast.

Upon being notified of the grant it was to receive, the department decided on purchasing piston-rod hydraulic rescue tools known as cutters, spreaders, and rams that are used to pry open vehicles involved in accidents when a victim may be trapped inside.

The grant package is part of a nationwide program called Fireman's Fund HeritageSM, which is funded by Fireman's Fund Insurance Company. The program is designed to provide needed equipment, training, and educational tools to local fire departments. Apollo General Insurance, an independent insurance agency that supplies Fireman's Fund products, is one of the leading providers of insurance coverage to the demolition industry. Apollo chose to direct a portion of the proceeds from demolition-related policies to this worthy cause.