Higgins: Federal fire grants available to local departments for fire prevention & safety

FP&S grant applications due Feb. 26

Congressman Brian Higgins announced the fire prevention and safety grant application period is now open with a deadline of 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 26.

“As our community relies on its brave firefighters for protection, our firefighters rely on their training to make quick, intelligent decisions that save lives,” Higgins said. “The fire prevention and safety program utilizes federal funding to support initiatives that keep firefighters and our communities safe. We encourage local departments to apply.”

Fire prevention and safety grants are part of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program and support projects that enhance the safety of the public and firefighters from fire and related hazards. Congress approved $35.5 million for fire prevention and safety grants in the current cycle. The primary goal is to reduce injury and prevent death among high-risk populations, including children and seniors. Eligible uses include public education, training, juvenile fire programs, arson investigation and code enforcement. In 2005, Congress expanded eligible uses of fire prevention and safety funds to include firefighter safety research and development, such as clinical studies or technology and product development.

Applicants with questions can also contact the fire grants help desk at [email protected] or 1-866-274-0960 open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. More information on the grant program is available at https://www.fema.gov/fire-prevention-safety-grants.