Bemus Point Volunteer Fire Department Chief Randy Apperson and his volunteer crew are in need of new gear, like boots, helmets and coats, which he says currently exceeds the recommended date for replacement. It's equipment he says that is better suited to battle all levels of dangerous situations.

"The higher heats you're exposed to, all the plastics, requires updated gear, and us old guys, it gets heavy," said Apperson.

Apperson also points out that the building itself is a bit crowded, and could use a few upgrades from bottom to top.

"We're tight. We have higher equipment and this equipment just barely fits through this door," he said.

All reasons why he would like a share of $25 million in state funding now available for all volunteer fire departments.

"It's great for the fire service statewide. Equipment's getting expensive nowadays so we welcome it," said Apperson.

Village Mayor Jeff Molnar, who'll be writing the grant, says fire engines can run as much as $1 million, and an ambulance half that, not to mention the other water rescue vehicles and the gear that goes with it.

"Very happy to hear that the governor has come forth with this program. The old model of fire departments doing chicken barbeques and selling raffle tickets and gun raffles and things like that. That's not sustainable," said Molnar.

The $25 million is split into two grants - $20 million for facility upgrades and $5 million for gear and equipment, yet departments can only apply for one.

Molnar says he'll go for the smaller grant and perhaps file a joint application for the other with a neighboring department, to maximize resources for his firefighters.

"And they can perform their tasks, not only efficiently, but effectively. But more importantly, they have to be safe," he said.

Apperson underscores that as well, which is why he's hopeful his department will get a grant.

"That's our number one goal, is everybody goes home," said Apperson.

Volunteer fire departments have until April 30 to submit their grant application to the state.