DAPHNE, Ala. — The Daphne Fire Department has been awarded a grant for $47,500 through the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program.

The grant was awarded to replace two aging cardiac monitor/defibrillators with new models equipped with cutting-edge technology. In 2009, the Daphne Fire Department responded to nearly 1,500 medical emergencies. The addition of these two monitors will ensure that each apparatus will be equipped with 12-lead EKG capability, an essential tool for the early detection of heart attacks, a spokesperson said.

They will also be equipped with technology capable of detecting elevated carbon monoxide levels in the blood stream.

The fire department expects these units to be in service by May.