ROCKFORD, Ill. (October 29, 2009) – The current economic downturn is negatively impacting fire departments in Illinois, according to a comprehensive national survey of firefighters sponsored by Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company. The study polled 30 percent of all fire departments in the country, revealing that more than half of departments (51 percent) have had to increase fundraising efforts.

Now, thanks to a $33,181 grant awarded by HUB International and Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company the Rockford Fire Department purchased two new rescue boats to keep the community safer.

“Response time is always critical when responding to any emergency, especially in areas that are difficult to reach when every second counts,” said Fire Chief Bergsten. “This grant gave us the opportunity to purchase vital equipment necessary to respond to water rescue emergencies.”

“We realize the negative effect the economy is having across the country and, in particular, within the fire service,” said Dennis Pauls, President and CEO of HUB International Midwest. “I’m proud that we were able to help in such a meaningful way to support the residents and firefighters of Rockford.”

Fire Chief Derek Bergsten, Rockford firefighters, and executives from HUB International and Fireman’s Fund will come together for a special public event where the rescue boats will be on display for a safety demonstration.

That will take place Friday, October 30th at 1:30 p.m. at Riverview Landing, behind the Ice House.

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