Dearborn, Mich. – Today, U.S. Representative John D. Dingell (D-MI15) met with the fire chiefs from the 15th District at the Dearborn City Hall to discuss federal funding programs for fire departments and to discuss the current challenges departments face.

"Our communities rely on these departments,” said Dingell.  “And while we can never truly repay our first responders for their brave efforts and dedication, we can ensure they have the equipment and resources they need to do their jobs well.” 

During today’s meeting, Dingell provided the fire chiefs with a brief update of the Congressional FY 2011 budget process as it relates to first responder funding.  In turn, he listened to the fire chiefs on the issues and challenges their departments face.  They also discussed the funding grant programs that might be helpful for their departments—particularly the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program.

The AFG program provides funding to local fire departments to help them improve the effectiveness of firefighting operations through specialized emergency response training, emergency medical services programs, health and safety initiatives, fire education and prevention programs; and equipment and facility upgrades.

The SAFER program supports the hiring of paid firefighters and the recruitment and retention of volunteer firefighters.  SAFER grants are administered to help local fire departments attain and maintain 24-hour staffing and to assure that their communities have adequate protection from fire and fire-related hazards. 

Programs are administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the grants are awarded on a competitive basis.  More information on the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program can be accessed at http://www.firegrantsupport.com/.

Congressman Dingell has for years been a leading advocate for first responders and funding for their work.  He continues vigorous oversight in the 112th Congress to see that these critical funding programs stay intact to ensure that our firefighters have the manpower, resources and tools to keep our communities safe. 

 

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