...Back MFPD Recieves Grant MONARCH FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT RECEIVES GRANT FOR COMMUNITY SAFETY EDUCATION PROGRAM Computer, Training Equipment, Outreach Materials Included in $12,000 Donation CHESTERFIELD, Mo. (Feb. 4, 2008) – According to the U.S. Fire Administration, among children age 14 and under, an estimated 2,800 are injured and 850 killed each year in residential fires nationwide. The Monarch Fire Protection District is working to reduce fire injuries in the community by adding new tools to its fire safety education program thanks to a $12,000 donation from Clayton-based Huntleigh McGehee and Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company. The district will use the money to purchase a number of items, including a fire extinguisher training kit to enable children and others to practice and learn how to properly use a fire extinguisher in the event of a fire. Fire Chief Clifford Biele said his public education officer will also receive a new computer and projector to aid in safety presentations at schools and in other group settings. In addition, a full-body Dalmatian dog costume will be purchased to use during fire safety events in classrooms. “Education is a key component to our overall fire prevention strategy,” said Chief Biele. “These new items will enable us to expand our program and reach many more people in new and unique ways.” The grant package is part of a nationwide program called Fireman’s Fund Heritage® which is funded by Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company. The program is designed to provide needed equipment, training and educational tools to local fire departments. Since 2004, Fireman’s Fund has issued grants to hundreds of different departments totaling more than $16 million. Independent insurance agencies that sell Fireman’s Fund products are able to direct these grants to support fire stations in their communities. Huntleigh McGehee was instrumental in directing this specific one to Monarch. “We’re hopeful this money and new equipment will go a long way in helping educate the community’s children about fire safety,” said Loren Wims with Huntleigh McGehee. About Huntleigh McGehee, Inc. Headquartered in Clayton, Huntleigh McGehee, Inc. was formed in 1991 by several insurance professionals in an effort to create a dominant regional insurance broker in the Midwest. Today, Huntleigh McGehee has grown to 88 insurance professionals with an average experience level of 19 years. The company offers a number of products, from commercial and personal insurance, to employee benefits and financial services. About Fireman’s Fund Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company is a premier property and casualty insurance company providing personal, commercial and specialty insurance products nationwide. Founded in 1863 with a mission to support firefighters, Fireman’s Fund continues this mission today through the Fireman’s Fund Heritage program. Fireman’s Fund is a member of the Allianz Group (NYSE: AZ), one of the world’s largest providers of insurance and other financial services. It is rated 'A+' by Standard & Poor's Ratings Services. Updated  Friday, February 11, 2000