Rutigliano Secures $300,000 for Highway Safety Vehicles to Protect Trumbull Firefighters

Rutigliano Secures $300,000 for Highway Safety Vehicles to Protect Trumbull Firefighters

Specialized emergency protection vehicles ordered for Nichols and Long Hill Fire Districts 

TRUMBULL, CT — State Representative David Rutigliano (R-Trumbull) announced that $300,000 he helped secure in the state budget for Trumbull's fire districts has been approved, and two specialized highway emergency protection vehicles have now been ordered.

The funding will provide one vehicle for the Nichols Fire District and one for the Long Hill Fire District. These vehicles are designed to provide a protective barrier between moving traffic and emergency responders, helping safeguard firefighters, rescue personnel, and emergency equipment at accident scenes.

In Connecticut, local fire departments respond to emergencies on state highways, including serious motor vehicle accidents, vehicle fires, and other incidents. These responses often require firefighters to work just feet away from passing traffic, creating the risk of secondary collisions.

"When an accident happens on one of Connecticut's highways, it's our local firefighters who answer the call," said Rutigliano. "They are often working just feet from vehicles traveling at highway speeds, putting themselves and their equipment at considerable risk. We have a responsibility to make sure they have the protection they need to do their jobs safely."

"Two years ago, when I became Chief, I outlined my concerns to Rep. Rutigliano about firefighter safety at accident scenes. Trumbull has three limited access state highways cutting through town. These two trucks will protect first responders and crash victims from secondary accidents which happen all too frequently. Dave is a friend of the fire service," said Chief Jason Mumbach of the Nichols Fire Department.

The new vehicles will serve as protective blocking units at emergency scenes along Route 15 (the Merritt Parkway) and Route 25, creating an additional layer of safety between approaching traffic and firefighters working on the roadway. They may also be deployed on local roads when circumstances warrant additional protection for emergency personnel.

"We are truly blessed in Trumbull to have such dedicated men and women serving in our volunteer fire departments," Rutigliano continued. "These are our neighbors, friends, and family members who willingly give their time, often putting themselves in harm's way to protect others. The least we can do is make sure they have the equipment and protection they need to carry out their responsibilities safely."

Rutigliano also expressed his appreciation to House Speaker Matt Ritter for his assistance in securing the funding.

 "I want to extend a special thank you to Speaker Ritter for his help in securing these appropriations and, more importantly, for recognizing the essential work our local fire companies perform," said Rutigliano. "Protecting our first responders is not a partisan issue, and I appreciate his partnership in making this investment possible."