(Image: FEMA.gov)

Window Now Open for Local First Responders to Apply

JAMESTOWN, NY -- Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-27) announced that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will be accepting applications for Fiscal Year (FY) 2011 Staffing for Adequate Fire & Emergency Response (SAFER) grants starting on January 30, 2012.

SAFER grants assist local fire departments with staffing and deployment capabilities to ensure that communities have adequate protection from fire and fire-related hazards.

“Western New York fire companies have benefitted greatly from SAFER grant funding in years past,” said Congressman Higgins. “I strongly encourage local fire companies to submit applications this year for assistance with recruitment and retention of first responders.”

Fire companies can access the SAFER grant application through the FEMA website at: www.fema.gov/firegrants/safer/index.shtm. Applicants can also access program guidance and a web-based tutorial on this website.

The application deadline is February 24, 2012 at 5:00 p.m. All applications are submitted to DHS and go through a non-partisan, merit based review ranked by factors established by a panel of fire service professionals.

For more information on the fire grant program, please contact Congressman Higgins’ Buffalo office at: 716-852-3501. Applicants with specific questions should contact the Fire Grant help desk at 1-866-274-0960 or email firegrants@dhs.gov.