Fire departments, first responders encouraged to apply for funding

The Department of Homeland Security's Fire Prevention and Safety Grant Program has funds available for fire departments and first responders.

Applications are due by 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 30. The application is accessible from www.firegrantsupport. com, the U.S. Fire Administration Web site, www.usfa.fema.gov, and at www.grants.gov.

"The Fire Prevention and Safety Grants work to help our local fire departments by providing grants that will give our firefighters the tools they need to best protect themselves, our community and our families," said Rep. Thomas M. Reynolds, R-Amherst, said.

All applications must be completed and submitted electronically, or postmarked on or before the close of business, by 5 p.m. Nov. 30. Only electronic applications submitted via the online automated grant application system will receive a confirmation of receipt. Paper applications should be mailed to the following address: Department of Homeland Security/FEMA Fire Prevention & Safety Grants 5th Floor TechWorld Building Room 5056 500 C Street SW Washington, D.C. 20472.