Applications for SAFER and FPS grants now available

The application periods for the Department of Homeland Security’s Staffing for Adequate Fire & Emergency Response (SAFER) grant and Fire Prevention & Safety (FPS) grant were announced last week.

The SAFER grant will provide $340 million directly to fire departments to help 1) rehire firefighters laid off during the recession, 2) increase the number of frontline firefighters, and 3) recruit and retain new firefighters. The application period for SAFER grants will begin on Monday, Feb. 9 and will close March 6. More information is available on the FEMA website: https://www.fema.gov/staffing-adequate-fire-emergency-response-grants

The FPS grant program will provide $34 million to support fire prevention and safety activities and firefighter safety research and development activities. The application period for FPS grants will begin Monday, March 16 and closes on April 17. More information on FPS and the application process, visit: http://www.fema.gov/fire-prevention-safety-grants

For years, these two grant programs have provided fire departments, ambulance corps and other first responder organizations an opportunity to recruit members and purchase items necessary for fire personnel, safety and research and development.

Eligible applicants for the SAFER grant include fire prevention and safety activities include fire departments and national, regional, state, local, Native American tribal organizations and/or community organizations with experience and expertise in fire prevention and safety programs.

Eligible applicants for the FPS grant include academic, public health, occupational health and injury prevention institutions, especially those recognized for firefighter safety research and development programs.

If you have questions or need assistance preparing and submitting applications for these grants, contact Steven Coyle: Steven.Coyle@mail.house.gov or (202) 225-5516.