More than 2,000 equipment and training grants were awarded across the nation as part of a Commercial Equipment Direct Assistance Program to ensure that law enforcement and emergency responders acquire specialized equipment and training to meet their homeland security mission.

Both Lincoln and Atlanta received thermal imagers, which detect body heat and can be used in cases such as missing persons reports or rescue attempts.

Lincoln received the Thermovision Scout ZX infrared camera.

"It can be used to locate individuals, somewhat similar to the fire department's," said Lincoln Police Chief Bob Rawlins. "We don't have any equipment like that so hopefully we can use it. It's a combination. We could use it at night or use it in search and rescue."

Rawlins said they applied for the grant and that one officer will have to be certified off site for the department to be able to use it.

Atlanta received the MX-2 handheld thermal imager, a camera small and light enough to fit into a pocket.

CEDAP offers equipment in the following categories: personal protection; thermal imaging, night vision and video surveillance tools; chemical and biological detection tools; information technology and risk management tools; and interoperable communications equipment.