Two Weeks Remaining for 2009 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Applications

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Two weeks remain to submit your 2009 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) applications. Completed applications must be submitted no later than 5:00 p.m., Eastern time on Wednesday, May 20, 2009.

The Fiscal Year (FY) 2009 AFG remains largely unchanged from previous years and is once again based upon input from members of America's fire services and other stakeholders. However, in FY 2009 the Grant Programs Directorate (GPD) will shift the focus on the level of response provided in emergency medical services (EMS) from basic life support (BLS) to advanced life support (ALS). The FY 2009 also has "candidate physical agility assessments" added as a high priority under the Wellness and Fitness Activities.

"As in the past, with electronic online filing and a help desk standing by to assist all fire departments with their applications, there should be no hindrance to any department seeking these valuable funds," said Acting Assistant Administrator Glenn A. Gaines. "Having been involved in the AFG Program since the U.S. Congress created this funding opportunity, I know first hand the complications which might arise when departments wait until the last moment to file their applications. The AFG has provided a significant enhancement to fire and EMS service delivery since 2001. Every fire department in this nation should consider competing for these funds."

The AFG office staffs a help desk throughout the FY 2009 AFG application period. The help desk staff is standing by to provide assistance with navigation through the automated application process as well as provide programmatic assistance with respect to questions of eligibility. The help desk can be contacted at 1-866-274-0960 or via email at firegrants@fema.dhs.gov. The help desk hours of operation during the application period are from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday. FEMA also provides an online tutorial to help applicants prepare a competitive application and has other helpful information at the AFG Website: www.fema.gov/firegrants/. In addition, FEMA Regional Fire Program Specialists located in each of the FEMA Regions can assist fire service applicants with the application process. Interested parties may contact the AFG help desk for information on contacting the nearest regional specialist.

The United States Fire Administration recommends everyone should have a comprehensive fire protection plan that includes smoke alarms, residential sprinklers, and practicing a home fire escape plan.

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