The Government Affairs Committee of the Fire Emergency Manufacturers & Services Association and the Fire Apparatus Manufacturers' Association has, through its “Home Day” initiative, encouraged FEMSA and FAMA members to invite their congressional leaders and staffers to visit their companies in their home states.

During the week of April 17, Home Day events across the country offered congressional leaders the opportunity to tour emergency services manufacturing facilities and the chance to learn more about the emergency service products in their home states.

One such effort was organized in Ocala, Fla., home of fire apparatus manufacturers E-ONE and Classic Fire, tank producers Pro Poly and United Plastic Fabricating, pump and control maker Class One, and compressor manufacturer Mako.

The goal of the event, billed as “The Marion County Fire and Emergency Equipment and Services Legislative Home Day,” was to focus attention on the fact that in Marion County, more than 1,700 people are employed in the fire equipment industry. In addition, that industry represents a $200 million economic engine for the county that would be seriously curtailed if the proposed FY 2007 federal budget‘s reduction of funding for SAFER and FIRE grants is approved.

“We want to make our federal, state and local officials aware of what we do bring to the county,” said Tim Dean of Pro Poly, "and make sure legislators are aware of the financial needs of fire services.”

The event featured displays and presentations by the companies involved, and the message was reported to have been well-received by those attending.