U.S. Sen. Pete Domenici recently announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is soliciting grant applications from fire departments throughout New Mexico in an effort to bolster fire service capabilities.
Domenici said a total of $360 million in 2002 Assistance to Firefighter’s Grant program funding will be made available to fire departments around the nation, pending FEMA’s review of grant applications.
“I strongly encourage New Mexico’s fire departments to take advantage of this federal assistance,” Domenici said. “In light of past fire devastation inflicted upon our state, fire departments need this support more than ever. This funding will give departments the chance to improve fire operations and firefighter safety, fire prevention, emergency medical service and firefighting vehicles.”
According to FEMA, fire departments can apply for funding to support the following: training, wellness and fitness, firefighting equipment and personal protective equipment; public education, public awareness, code enforcement and arson prevention; training and equipment, including firefighting vehicles.
Applicants may apply online at http://www.usfa.fema.gov/grants. The application period extends from March 1 to April 1, 2002 and FEMA evaluation panels will review applications in April and May with awards beginning in May. For more information on the program, call toll free (866) 274-0960.
In 2000, Domenici’s “Happy Forests” initiative provided $240.3 million for fire-service related programs nationwide, which derived from $2.9 billion provided by Congress for the National Fire Plan.
Domenici serves on the VA-HUD Appropriations Subcommittee, which sets funding levels for FEMA and other independent federal agencies.
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