EU funding backs fire and flood protection projects in Denmark, Estonia, Poland, Slovenia and Iceland

by Featured NewsFlooding

Five countries to receive €86 million for environmental resilience

The European Commission has announced €86 million in funding for new Strategic Integrated Projects aimed at fire and flood protection, water quality improvement, and greenhouse gas reduction.

According to the Commission, the funds are being allocated through the LIFE Programme and will support projects in Denmark, Estonia, Poland, Slovenia and Iceland.

The projects were selected under the 2023 calls for proposals and are intended to help national and local governments meet EU climate and environmental targets.

Project details by country and funding breakdown

In Denmark, the LIFE ACT project will involve 27 municipalities working together to lower municipal CO₂ emissions by 75 percent and improve climate resilience along 2,900 km of coastline by 2050.

The total project cost is €28.4 million, with €17 million provided by the EU.

In Estonia, €29.9 million has been awarded to the LIFE SIP WET-EST project, which focuses on improving water quality in the Western Estonian river basin through pollution control and ecosystem restoration.

The EU will provide €17.9 million of the total project budget.

Poland’s funding of €21.9 million, including €13.1 million from the EU, will support regional recycling targets in the Pomorskie Voivodeship.

A coalition of 31 partners, including local government and academic institutions, is aiming to raise recycling to 65 percent and reduce landfill waste to 10 percent by 2035.

Slovenia and Iceland to enhance drought and water management

Slovenia’s LIFE4ADAPT project will receive €26.5 million, including €14.2 million in EU support.

The project will fund the country’s Climate Service Centre and Climate Portal, with a focus on education and risk management to address recurring droughts, forest fires and floods.

In Iceland, the LIFE ICEWATER initiative will bring together municipalities, researchers and public agencies to reduce pressure on water resources and support sustainable use.

The total project cost is €39.6 million, with the EU contributing €23.8 million.

Additional EU funding and LIFE programme context

The Commission also adopted the LIFE Programme work plan for 2025 to 2027, which outlines €2.3 billion in planned funding to support a circular economy, zero pollution, clean energy and biodiversity.

The LIFE Programme is the only dedicated EU funding scheme for climate, environmental and energy objectives and has supported over 6,000 projects since 1992.

Funding for the current Strategic Integrated Projects is part of the wider €5.43 billion LIFE budget set under the 2021–2027 Multiannual Financial Framework.

EU prepares next round of LIFE calls for 2025

The Commission has announced that the next round of LIFE Programme calls for proposals will open on 24 April 2025.

According to the Commission, virtual information sessions will be held from 13 to 15 May 2025 to assist applicants.

Water resilience was highlighted as a priority in a recent call for evidence, which the Commission said identified widespread degradation and poor water management across the EU.

CINEA, the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency, will continue managing the LIFE Programme and facilitating project implementation.

EU funding backs fire and flood protection projects in Denmark, Estonia, Poland, Slovenia and Iceland: Summary

The European Commission has awarded €86 million under the LIFE Programme for environmental projects in Denmark, Estonia, Poland, Slovenia and Iceland.

The funding will support water quality improvements, emission reductions and climate resilience.

Denmark’s project aims to reduce CO₂ by 75 percent and protect 2,900 km of coastline.

Estonia will improve the Western Estonian river basin.

Poland will target 65 percent recycling and cut landfill waste to 10 percent by 2035.

Slovenia will strengthen drought, fire and flood management.

Iceland will enhance sustainable water use.

The Commission also approved the 2025–2027 LIFE Programme plan with a €2.3 billion budget.

New calls for proposals will launch on 24 April 2025.

CINEA will host virtual sessions in May 2025 to support applicants.

BRINC secures $75 million funding to scale emergency response drone technology

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured NewsProducts

BRINC receives major investment to expand emergency response drone operations

BRINC has announced the completion of a $75 million funding round to expand its emergency response drone technology.

According to BRINC, the funding round was led by Index Ventures, which has participated in two previous investment rounds.

Motorola Solutions has also joined as a new investor as part of a strategic alliance.

Additional investors include Mike Volpi and Dylan Field, CEO of Figma.

The capital will be used to scale BRINC’s production capabilities to meet growing demand, increase research and development into future drone technologies, and expand the company’s workforce.

Partnership with Motorola Solutions enables new integrations

The new partnership with Motorola Solutions will allow BRINC drones to integrate with Motorola’s public safety systems.

According to BRINC, these include APX radios, VESTA 911 emergency call software, Computer-Aided Dispatch platforms, Real-Time Crime Center Software (CommandCentral Aware), and Automatic License Plate Recognition systems.

This integration enables BRINC drones to be launched via radio trigger, respond to alerts from connected sensors, and stream real-time aerial footage directly into Motorola Solutions’ platforms.

BRINC drones already in use by public safety agencies

BRINC stated that its drones are currently used by hundreds of law enforcement, fire, and emergency response departments in the United States.

The new funding and partnership are intended to expand the reach and capabilities of this technology.

BRINC said the technology is aimed at improving tactical de-escalation, enhancing situational awareness, and delivering real-time intelligence to emergency services.

Stakeholders highlight confidence in BRINC’s public safety vision

Several investors commented on the role of BRINC’s drone systems in public safety applications.

Vlad Loktev, Partner at Index Ventures, said: “Our investment in BRINC represents a deep belief in their transformative vision.

“The company’s technology has redefined how public safety agencies handle critical incidents.

“We’re thrilled to continue supporting BRINC’s mission to protect human life with public safety technology.”

Raj Naik, Senior Vice President, Strategy & Ventures at Motorola Solutions, said: “BRINC is a leader in providing innovative, automated drone solutions for public safety agencies.

“We are excited to invest in BRINC, an organisation that shares our mission to help protect and save lives.”

Blake Resnick, Founder and CEO of BRINC, added: “We will continue building world-class emergency response drones and scale our team to meet the growing demand for our life-saving technologies. We couldn’t be more excited for the future.”

BRINC secures $75 million funding to scale emergency response drone technology: Summary

BRINC has raised $75 million in a funding round led by Index Ventures.

Motorola Solutions joined as a new investor, forming a strategic partnership to integrate BRINC’s drones with Motorola public safety systems.

Other investors include Mike Volpi and Dylan Field.

The funding will support increased drone production, development of new technologies, and company expansion.

BRINC drones will now integrate with Motorola’s APX radios, VESTA 911, CAD platforms, real-time crime centre software, and automatic licence plate recognition systems.

The drones are already used by police, fire, and emergency response departments across the United States.

BRINC said the funding and alliance will support tactical de-escalation and real-time intelligence delivery.

Statements from Index Ventures, Motorola Solutions, and BRINC leadership confirm support for expanding the role of drones in public safety applications.

LA Parks Foundation receives FireAid donation to rebuild Pacific Palisades playground

by Featured NewsProjectsSafetyWildland Fire

FireAid donation supports wildfire recovery at Los Angeles playground

The Los Angeles Parks Foundation has received a $1 million donation from FireAid to support the restoration of the Pacific Palisades Playground, which was damaged by wildfires in Southern California in January 2025.

According to the Los Angeles Parks Foundation, the funds will be used to expedite reconstruction and modernisation work at the Palisades Park and Recreation Center, located at 851 Alma Real Drive in Pacific Palisades.

The LA Parks Foundation, which will oversee the project, has also secured a $300,000 in-kind donation from GameTime, which is supplying all playground equipment.

An additional contribution has been made by Banc of California’s Wildfire Relief & Recovery Fund.

Over $1.3 million allocated to restore Palisades Park and Recreation Center

Combined support for the playground restoration now exceeds $1.3 million.

The full project is scheduled for completion in time for the 4 July holiday.

The funding has been designated for urgent restoration needs at Palisades Park, which has served the local community for over 35 years.

Tony Budrovich, President and CEO of the Los Angeles Parks Foundation, said: “We express our deep gratitude to FireAid, GameTime, and Banc of California for their generous donations.”

Design to include accessible equipment and tribute to first responders

Two adjacent playgrounds for children aged five to 14 will be constructed, both featuring rubber surfacing and integrated shade structures.

The playground will be fully accessible and include updated safety features.

A fire truck-themed play structure will be added in recognition of first responders who fought the Palisades fire.

Budrovich said: “This support comes out of a successful private and public partnership aimed at revitalising the playground within the Palisades community.”

Public-private partnership helps advance park restoration goals

The LA Parks Foundation’s role is to support the Los Angeles City Department of Recreation and Parks and promote access to the city’s more than 500 public parks.

Budrovich said: “The Palisades Park plays a vital role in the community, providing families with opportunities for recreation and fostering a sense of togetherness, which is more important than ever.”

The donations are part of wider efforts to rebuild damaged public infrastructure following the wildfires that impacted Southern California earlier this year.

LA Parks Foundation receives FireAid donation to rebuild Pacific Palisades playground: Summary

The Los Angeles Parks Foundation has received a $1 million donation from FireAid to support the rebuilding of the Pacific Palisades Playground, damaged in January 2025 by wildfires.

The Foundation has also received a $300,000 in-kind equipment donation from GameTime and additional support from Banc of California’s Wildfire Relief & Recovery Fund.

The project, managed by the LA Parks Foundation, will include two new accessible playgrounds for children aged five to 14 and a fire truck-themed play structure.

Construction is expected to be completed before 4 July.

The restoration addresses immediate needs at the Palisades Park and Recreation Center, located at 851 Alma Real Drive, which has been in operation for over 35 years.

All contributions have been publicly confirmed by the LA Parks Foundation.

Fire Brigades Union challenges real-terms funding cut to fire service

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Local government settlement reveals fire service funding increase below inflation

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has criticised the UK government’s funding allocation for fire and rescue services in England, arguing that a real-terms cut will put public safety at risk.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) published its local government settlement on 3 February, outlining central funding levels for fire and rescue services from April 2025.

The budget will rise by 1.4%, while the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rate is around 2.5%.

FBU general secretary Steve Wright said: “This funding settlement is a real-terms cut to fire and rescue services across England.

“Even in cash terms, it will leave central government funding lower than it was a decade ago.”

FBU warns of further strain on fire and rescue services

FBU has stated that continued budget restrictions will worsen staffing shortages and emergency response times.

The union reports that since 2010, one in five firefighter roles has been cut, with central funding declining in real terms.

The latest budget allocates £999 million for fire and rescue services in England, reflecting a £13.4 million cash increase.

In contrast, in 2013-14, central funding was £1.24 billion when costs were lower.

Wright stated: “These cuts put lives at risk. We have lost one in five firefighter jobs since 2010, and response times are the worst they’ve ever been. Labour was elected promising change.”

Concerns over reliance on local taxation

The FBU has expressed concern that local authorities may attempt to compensate for the funding shortfall by increasing council tax.

The union has warned that this approach could widen disparities in fire service provision across different regions.

Wright said: “There is already a postcode lottery on fire cover, and a lack of central government funding will make fragmentation worse.

“In some areas, local authorities will raise council tax to cover the shortfall. In others, they may choose to cut the fire service even more.”

Call for investment in fire services and firefighter pay

The FBU has urged the government to reconsider the funding settlement and increase investment in fire and rescue services.

It is also calling for a pay rise for firefighters, citing significant real-terms wage reductions over the past 15 years.

Wright said: “The Fire Brigades Union urges the government to think again and deliver the investment we need to keep people safe.

“Any further cuts to fire services are cuts to public safety, and FBU members will be making that case to fire authorities across the country.

“We are also clear that we must see substantial real-terms improvement in pay, following 15 years of falling wages.”

Fire Brigades Union challenges real-terms funding cut to fire services: Summary

The Fire Brigades Union has criticised the UK government’s local government funding settlement for 2025, stating that the 1.4% increase for fire and rescue services in England is below inflation and amounts to a real-terms cut.

Since 2010, firefighter numbers have declined by 20%, and response times have worsened.

The FBU warns that the funding shortfall could result in increased reliance on council tax to cover costs, leading to regional disparities in fire service provision.

The union is calling for a reassessment of the budget and for firefighter pay increases to offset years of declining real-terms wages.

Wright has urged the government to reconsider its position and prioritise public safety by ensuring adequate resources for fire and rescue services.

Funding delays push Grenfell Tower fire investigation timeline to 2026

by ConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

Metropolitan Police Grenfell Tower investigation delay

The Metropolitan Police’s investigation into the Grenfell Tower fire will not be completed until September 2026, according to The Telegraph.

Det Supt Garry Moncrieff informed survivors and victims’ families of a revised timeline due to a lack of financial resources.

The initial target was March 2026, but the new timeline has pushed the conclusion date by six months.

Moncrieff acknowledged the impact this delay may have on families and stated that the investigation, involving 160 officers, is one of the most complex ever conducted by UK policing.

Impact on criminal prosecutions

The delayed investigation timeline will affect subsequent legal proceedings.

Det Supt Moncrieff indicated that the delay will push Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) charging decisions to 2027.

The inquests into the deaths of 72 individuals can only proceed once criminal prosecutions are complete.

This means that the legal process could extend nearly 20 years beyond the 2017 tragedy.

Campaigners have criticised the timeline as exacerbating the suffering of those affected.

Campaigners’ response

Grenfell Next of Kin, a group representing victims and survivors, condemned the delay.

A spokesman stated: “This letter has heaped injustice upon injustice,” and accused authorities of exploiting the system.

The group expressed frustration over ongoing delays and questioned the necessity for further funding.

The campaigners noted that public inquiries, which heavily relied on police evidence, did not uncover fundamentally new findings compared to police investigations.

Government and police responses

The government has reiterated its commitment to supporting the investigation.

A government spokesman stated: “We share the community’s determination to get to the truth of what happened and for those responsible to be held to account.”

Dept Asst Commissioner Stuart Cundy acknowledged frustrations over the delays but emphasised the importance of conducting a thorough investigation to ensure justice is achieved.

Funding delays push Grenfell Tower fire investigation timeline to 2026: Summary

The Metropolitan Police’s investigation into the Grenfell Tower fire has been delayed by six months due to insufficient funding, pushing the conclusion date to September 2026.

The revised timeline has caused frustration among victims’ families and campaigners, as Crown Prosecution Service charging decisions will be delayed until 2027, further prolonging the legal process.

Campaign groups have criticised the police and government over the timeline and the additional funding request.

Both the government and police maintain that a thorough investigation is necessary to achieve justice.

UK schools urged to apply for condition improvement funding for 2025-2026

by Featured NewsFire Detection

Bidding round for condition improvement funding opens

The annual bidding round for the Condition Improvement Funding (CIF) for the 2025-2026 cycle has been announced.

Luminite has encouraged schools and colleges across the UK to submit their applications by 17 December 2024 to be considered for this funding, which prioritises safety and maintenance improvements in educational facilities.

The fund, amounting to over £400 million, aims to support projects that address compliance, health, and safety needs in school and college buildings.

According to the funding guidelines, projects that focus on maintaining the safety and functionality of educational buildings are given top priority.

Compliance with health and safety standards is emphasised to ensure a secure learning environment for students and staff.

Lockdown protection systems eligible for funding

Among the eligible projects for CIF is the installation of lockdown protection systems.

This measure, encouraged by updated Ofsted guidelines, requires that lockdown alert sounds are distinctly different from fire alarms to avoid confusion in emergency situations.

The contrasting sounds aim to direct individuals either to seek a safe area or evacuate, depending on the nature of the alert.

The ALERTEX range, produced by Luminite, is among the products meeting these needs with a battery-powered system that facilitates rapid and strategic installation within schools.

Luminite’s offerings also include annunciators for schools preferring spoken messages for clear instructions upon activation.

Funding emphasises health and safety compliance

In line with its primary goals, CIF funding prioritises projects that address urgent health and safety issues within school and college environments.

This may include necessary repairs, safety updates, and compliance with relevant regulations, reflecting a broader commitment to secure educational spaces across the UK.

CIF funding, therefore, enables schools to address issues proactively, ensuring that building conditions meet health and safety standards.

Schools are advised to outline how their proposed projects will fulfil these criteria within their funding applications.

Additional information and application details

For schools interested in the lockdown solutions provided by Luminite, contact details for further information are available.

Laura Grainger at Luminite can be reached on 0208 368 7887, and additional information on both the CIF and Luminite’s lockdown solutions can be found on their website at www.luminite.co.uk.

UK schools urged to apply for condition improvement funding for 2025-2026: Summary

The UK government has announced the opening of the annual bidding round for Condition Improvement Funding (CIF) for 2025-2026, a £400 million fund aimed at supporting essential safety and condition improvement projects in schools and colleges.

The application deadline is set for 17 December 2024, with priority given to projects that ensure health, safety, and compliance with regulatory standards.

Eligible projects include the installation of lockdown alert systems that align with Ofsted guidelines, requiring distinct sounds for lockdown and fire alerts.

Luminite’s ALERTEX range is among the options available, featuring battery-powered systems for swift installation.

Schools can reach out to Laura Grainger at Luminite or visit their website for additional details.

Alpine Fire Engineers secures £70m refinancing deal to support future growth

by Featured NewsFire Engineering

£70m refinancing deal with Shawbrook and HSBC for Alpine Fire Engineers

Alpine Fire Engineers has secured a refinancing package of up to £70 million with Shawbrook Bank and HSBC.

The new financing will support Alpine’s future acquisitions and help fund the company’s ongoing growth strategy.

The refinancing facility has already been utilised to fund Alpine’s acquisition of DAS Fire Limited.

This strategic investment aligns with the company’s plan to supplement organic growth with acquisitions, further enhancing its position within the fire engineering sector.

Growth following management buyout in 2022

Alpine has experienced significant expansion since a management buyout in December 2022, backed by private equity firm WestBridge.

The buyout enabled Alpine to grow its core operations and enter more complex markets.

The financing package is set to enable further expansion, positioning Alpine as a leader in the fire suppression industry.

Steven Nanda, chief executive officer of Alpine, commented on the support from its financial partners: “We would like to thank the team at Shawbrook for their continued support and also the team at HSBC, who join us on the next phase of our exciting journey.”

Strategic partnership to support growth

WestBridge, a key investor in Alpine since 2022, expressed optimism about the new debt facility.

Thomas Dutton, senior investment manager at WestBridge, stated: “This new debt facility brings a level of flexibility and certainty to help Alpine realise the next chapter of expansion and future growth.”

The financial support from Shawbrook and HSBC will provide Alpine with the resources to continue scaling its business, including a 30% increase in headcount, strategic acquisitions, and the implementation of new IT systems.

HSBC and Shawbrook’s commitment to Alpine

Both HSBC and Shawbrook have expressed their confidence in Alpine’s growth potential.

Jake Taylor, director at HSBC UK Leveraged Finance, said: “It is an exciting time for the business, which has demonstrated fantastic growth in recent years.”

Deepak Parekh, senior director at Shawbrook, added: “We are thrilled to continue to support Alpine in their ambitious growth journey.”

Alpine Fire Engineers secures £70m refinancing deal to support future growth: Summary

Alpine Fire Engineers has secured a £70 million refinancing package from Shawbrook Bank and HSBC.

The deal will support Alpine’s growth strategy, including funding for acquisitions such as DAS Fire Limited.

Since a management buyout in December 2022, Alpine has experienced robust growth, with backing from private equity firm WestBridge.

The company plans to continue expanding its operations, entering new markets, and enhancing its technical capabilities.

Both Shawbrook and HSBC have expressed confidence in Alpine’s ability to achieve its growth ambitions.

Fire Grants and Safety Act signed into law by President Biden

by Breaking News

Fire Grants and Safety Act: Federal funding secured for fire service programs

As reported by the IAFC and CFSI, President Joe Biden signed the Fire Grants and Safety Act (S. 870) into law on July 9th at the White House.

This legislation secures federal funding for the AFG and SAFER grant programs through FY2028 and delays the sunset date to September 30, 2030.

The law authorizes $750 million each for the AFG and SAFER grant programs from FY2024 through FY2028.

It also includes $95 million for the USFA to fund NERIS, develop EMS programs, and investigate major fire causes to establish best prevention practices.

The Act also promotes the development of nuclear energy in the United States.

Legislative support and collaboration

The passage of the Fire Grants and Safety Act was a result of bipartisan efforts and extensive collaboration.

Key legislative supporters included leaders from the House and Senate, the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee.

International Association of Fire Chiefs President John S.Butler, who attended the signing, stated: “This law reaffirms our nation’s deep commitment to the fire service and EMS.

“The passage of the Fire Grants and Safety Act represents a collective, bipartisan effort on the part of congressional representatives, the IAFC membership and board, fellow professional associations, and fire service leaders from all over the country.”

Ongoing advocacy and future efforts

The CFSI highlighted the two-year advocacy efforts by its members and the National Advisory Committee, which were crucial in reauthorizing the AFG and SAFER programs.

The collaboration among various national organizations and congressional members was essential in overcoming legislative hurdles and ensuring the bill’s passage.

CFSI will continue to support robust funding for these programs and the USFA.

Recently, CFSI worked with Representatives Bill Pascrell, Mike Bost, and Brian Fitzpatrick to add $7.5 million to the AFG and SAFER funding lines in the House FY2025 DHS Appropriations Bill.

This amendment was accepted, and the bill passed the House at the end of June.

Assistance to Firefighters Grant funding announced by FEMA

by Featured News

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has initiated applications for the 2023 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) programme, allocating $324 million to bolster public and firefighter safety against fire-related risks.

FEMA’s dedication to safety and resilience

The AFG programme is critical in strengthening the nation’s defences against fire incidents.

This year’s funding focuses on providing emergency response teams with necessary equipment, enhanced training, and improved communication interoperability.

Effect of AFG programme on communities

The AFG programme has a proven track record of benefiting communities across the nation.

It has been instrumental in life-saving operations, including rescues and accident preventions, as well as health screenings for firefighters, demonstrating its wide-reaching impact.

Details of application and fund allocation

Fire departments, non-affiliated emergency medical service organisations, and state fire training academies are eligible for the grant.

The application deadline is 8 March 2024, 5 p.m. GMT.

The total appropriation under the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2023, is $360 million, of which a portion is for the Fire Prevention and Safety programme.

Statements from FEMA officials

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, citing her firefighting background, emphasised the significance of providing local fire departments with vital resources.

Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, U.S. Fire Administrator, also highlighted the impact of AFG grants at various governmental levels.

Further information

For additional details on the funding notice and application process, visit FEMA’s website and Grants.gov.

FEMA plans to conduct webinars to assist applicants.

IFSJ Comment

FEMA’s $324 million funding for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant programme is a crucial initiative for enhancing firefighter and community safety.

Such grants play an essential role in equipping emergency responders with the resources they need to effectively tackle fires and related hazards.

This funding is especially important in the context of increasing fire risks due to various factors including climate change.

It highlights the need for continued investment in fire safety and preparedness across the globe.

Fire service organisations call on Congress for crucial funding support

by Featured NewsSafety

39 national fire and emergency services organisations have united, urging Congress to reauthorise the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG) and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response Grant Program (SAFER).

Without this crucial reauthorisation, both AFG and SAFER will come to an end in under a year, specifically on September 30, 2024.

The importance of these programs can be gauged from the fact that they cater to the requirements of over a million fire and emergency services personnel.

Fire service challenges across the board

These personnel address a staggering 36 million service calls every year. These calls cover a diverse range of emergencies, from structural fires and natural disasters to medical emergencies and hostile events.

Despite this extensive range of responsibilities, fire departments nationwide face challenges in terms of training, equipment, and staffing to ensure adequate response times.

According to the National Fire Protection Association’s 5th Needs Assessment: “Fire service needs are extensive across the board.”

This report goes on to highlight that a significant number of fire departments have outdated personal protective equipment.

Furthermore, over half the fire departments are unable to provide all their members with the Self Contained Breathing Apparatus, vital for their safety.

The lifeline that is AFG and SAFER

The aforementioned AFG and SAFER grant programs act as lifelines to countless fire and EMS departments across the country.

These departments face escalating costs and expanding roles, making this funding essential.

Similarly, the USFA, as the lead federal agency, plays a pivotal role in fire data collection, public education, and fire service training.

Their annual activities include offering training to both the public and fire service, and providing key data through the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS).

Voices from the fire service

Bill Webb, Executive Director of the Congressional Fire Services Institute, commented: “When 9-1-1 is called, every community relies on their fire and EMS personnel.”

Seth Statler, Director of Government Affairs for the National Fire Protection Association, pointed out: “Data from NFPA shows how underprepared our nation’s firefighters are.”

Furthermore, Chief John Butler, President of the International Association of Fire Chiefs, acknowledged: “The AFG and SAFER grant programs are lifelines for fire departments.”

Chief Kevin Quinn of the National Volunteer Fire Council highlighted the significance of these grants for volunteer departments.

Dave Hoagland, President of the Washington DC Firefighters Association, stressed the irreplaceable nature of the 911 service.

And Victor Stagnaro, the CEO of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, reminded us of the brave firefighters who risk their lives every day.

IFSJ Comment

The collective appeal of 39 national fire and emergency services organisations underscores the vital role that AFG and SAFER grant programs play.

As the demands on the fire service continue to grow, it is essential that they have the necessary resources to respond effectively.

This push for reauthorisation is not just about funding but ensuring the safety of both the firefighters and the communities they serve.