Today, U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced that the International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI), based in Calcium, New York, will receive a grant totaling $267,000 in Round 15 of the FY11 Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) for Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S). AFG awards are administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and are designed to strengthen the nation’s ability to respond to fire and fire-related hazards and improve the nation’s overall level of preparedness. Specifically, the IAAI will use this funding for professional development of fire fighters and fire investigators. They will work in collaboration with the Fire Chief Association to offer six training programs and train about 1,200 fire fighters and fire investigators throughout New York State in Albany, Rochester, Syracuse and Long Island.
“With these funds, the IAAI can continue the valuable work they do by offering critical training to fire fighters and fire investigators,” said Senator Schumer. “The bottom line is that through training like this we can save lives. The valuable skills learned will ensure the best fire fighters and fire investigators are on the clock, using new skills to keep our communities safe.”
“This is an important investment the International Association of Arson Investigators,” said Senator Gillibrand. “It’s our responsibility to ensure our first responders have the most up-to-date and advanced training to serve our communities. This funding will help the International Association of Arson Investigators create and implement fire prevention and investigation training so that firefighters can respond to emergencies in the community more efficiently and effectively, and help save more lives.”
Schumer was a sponsor of the legislation that led to the creation of this funding program for local governments and fire departments to help defray the rising costs of equipment and fire prevention. The Operations and Firefighter Safety Program funds can go towards training, equipment, personal protective equipment, wellness and fitness, and modifications to fire stations and facilities.
The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Fire Prevention & Safety (FP&S) Program, established by FEMA within the Department of Homeland Security, support projects that enhance the safety of the public and firefighters from fire and related hazards. The primary goal is to target high-risk populations and reduce injury and save lives.
The Assistance to Firefighters Grants are administered by the Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency in cooperation with the Department’s United States Fire Administration. The grants are awarded on a competitive basis to the applicants that most closely address the program’s priorities and demonstrate financial need. More information on the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program can be accessed at http://www.firegrantsupport.com/ .