FEMA Assists Firefighters With Grant Program

(Washington D.C.) — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced Wednesday that the annual funding opportunity for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG).

The Fiscal Year 2016 AFG program will award $310.5 million to enhance the safety of the public and firefighters against fire-related deaths and hazards.

FEMA awards AFG funding to fire departments, nonaffiliated Emergency Medical Service (EMS) organizations, and state fire-training academies. In addition, FEMA awards funding to other nonprofit organizations recognized for their experience and expertise with respect to fire prevention, fire safety programs and activities, and firefighter research and development programs.

Since 2002, FEMA has awarded $6.8 billion in fire grants to more than 62,300 recipients. Historically, 84 percent of awards go towards purchasing personal protective equipment, vehicles, and other operational equipment.

The application period is open through Nov. 18, 2016. The grant guidance is posted at http://www.grants.gov. Fire departments and other applicants who need additional information or assistance may contact the help desk at firegrants@fema.gov or by calling 866-274-0960.

Additionally, National Fire Prevention week is this week, Oct. 9-15. This year’s fire prevention campaign is,”Don’t Wait, Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years. For additional information on Fire Prevention Week, visit: http://www.usfa.fema.gov. For tips on fire safety and prevention, go to Ready.gov/home-fires.