PLAINFIELD – First responders statewide, including a local sheriff’s office and fire department in central Indiana, will benefit from grants from Duke Energy Foundation. The funding, which totals nearly $285,000 for organizations across the state, will help public safety agencies increase their response capabilities during severe weather and other emergencies through advanced preparation, planning, equipment and training.
“During the current storm season, our service territory has experienced significant weather events, including an unusually high number of tornadoes,” said Stan Pinegar, president of Duke Energy Indiana. “I am proud of our recovery work, and we could not accomplish it effectively without the collaboration of a host of first responders in our communities. We appreciate their assistance.”
During major emergencies and natural disasters, local emergency management agencies play a critical role in providing information, resources and support that Duke Energy relies on to speed power restoration for its customers.
In central Indiana, Duke Energy Foundation shareholder-funded grants were awarded to the following organizations:
Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Office: $2,000 for drone equipment such as battery packs, propellers, and operational gear to ensure drones are available for deployment at any time.
East Columbus Independent Fire Department (Bartholomew County): $3,000 to purchase personal protective equipment for all of the department’s rescuers so they can perform tasks safely.
Town of Zionsville (Boone County): $4,000 to purchase a portable “radar speed display” to increase traffic safety, respond to citizen complaints, and quantify valuable traffic data.
