FIRE Grant Application Period Starts March 6

FAIRFAX, Va. — The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced today that the application process for the Assistance to Firefighters Grants program (popularly known as FIRE grants) will open on March 6, 2006 at 8 am (EST). The application process will close at 5 pm (EDT) on April 7, 2006.

The FIRE grant applications are automated and accessible at www.firegrantsupport.com.

This Web site also includes important information on the FIRE grant program, including the Fiscal Year 2006 funding priorities and program guidance, a Web-based tutorial on the application process, a listing of frequently asked questions, and other materials. Fire departments also can get answers to questions about the application process by calling the Help Desk at 1-866-274-0960 or by e-mailing firegrants@dhs.gov.  During the application period, Help Desk hours will be from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday, and on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The FIRE grant program is administered by DHS’s Office of Grants and Training (G&T) in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration. The FIRE grant program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States. In addition the FIRE grant program accepts applications from nonaffiliated EMS organizations for the activities (equipment, training, vehicles, etc.) for which fire departments are also eligible to apply.

This year, fire departments may apply for FIRE grants for training; equipment; personal protective equipment; wellness and fitness programs; modifications to fire stations and facilities; and fire apparatus. Nonaffiliated EMS organizations may apply for grants for EMS training; EMS equipment including personal protective equipment; wellness and fitness programs; modifications to stations and facilities; and apparatus. The DHS defines a nonaffiliated EMS organization as a public or private nonprofit EMS organization that provides direct emergency medical services, including medical transport, to a specific geographic area on a first-due basis but is not affiliated with a hospital and does not serve a geographic area where emergency medical services are adequately provided by a fire department.

Congress appropriated $539.55 million to the DHS Office of Grants and Training to fund the FIRE grant program.

The application period for the SAFER grants is scheduled for June 2006. The application period for the Fire Prevention and Safety grants is scheduled to take place in September 2006.