Grants Available For Rural Fire Departments

ALBANY, 05/13/09 -- Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) today announced applications are being accepted to help rural fire departments enhance their wildfire fighting capabilities.

“Rural fire departments protect our homes, natural resources and our lives, often joining DEC Rangers to battle wildfires,” said Seward.  “In order to provide this vital service our firefighters need the right equipment which at times can be extremely expensive.  Whenever grant funds are available I encourage our local departments to apply.”

The grant program is funded by the U.S. Forest Service and administered by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).  Only expenses directly related to fire suppression are eligible for funding.  These include the purchase of portable pumps, portable backpack pumps, hand tools, hoses, light-weight fireproof clothing, hard hats, turnout gear, portable radios, generators and dry hydrants. 

Priority will be given to fire departments that serve inadequately protected rural communities.  Preference will also be given to departments that have not received funding the past five years under the Volunteer Fire Assistance/Rural Community Fire Protection Program.

"I am hopeful that volunteer fire departments in the 51st district will be able to take advantage of the grant program,” concluded Seward.

Applicants may contact the DEC at (518) 402-8839 or access the PDF application below.  The deadline for applications is May 31.

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