Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-27) announced the Department of Homeland Security is now accepting applications for grants through the Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) Program through February 4, 2011. 

“I encourage local fire departments and agencies to learn more about this year’s guidelines and apply for these resources that can help protect our firefighters and the Western New York communities they serve,” said Congressman Higgins.

Fire Prevention and Safety grants are intended to help local organizations address fire prevention and safety issues with the primary goal of reaching high-risk target groups including children, seniors and firefighters.  Up to $35 million dollars will be made available for FP&S grants nationwide this year.  FP&S is part of a larger Assistance to Firefighters program administered by the Department of Homeland Security in cooperation with the US Fire Administration. 

All applications for FP&S grants must be received by 5pm on February 4, 2011.  An applicant tutorial which provides grant information and details outlining the process for preparation and submittal of competitive applications is available at www.firegrantsupport.com.  Applicants with questions regarding the grants can contact the help desk between 8:00am and 4:30pm Monday through Friday at 1-866-274-0960 or firegrants@dhs.gov. 

Congressman Higgins has hosted several fire grants workshops where participants are invited to learn first-hand from a DHS Fire Grant Specialist how to put together a qualifying application.  All applications are then submitted to DHS and go through a non-partisan, merit based review ranked by factors established by a panel of service professionals.