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Smaller Ohio Fire Departments Encouraged to Apply for Grants

Photo Courtesy of Word Press

Article Presented By Pickaway Ross CTC…

(Columbus) – The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal (SFM) announces the availability of two grants, the Individual and Joint Equipment Grant and the Training Reimbursement Grant. Online applications will be accepted until Jan. 31, 2024, at com.ohio.gov/grants.

“We’re proud to support Ohio’s firefighters through these grants,” State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon said. “This funding is a huge benefit to the fire service, especially for our volunteers, allowing them to better protect the communities they serve.”

The Fire Department Equipment Grant is for qualifying fire departments and local government entities. Individual and Joint Fire Departments are encouraged to apply. Allowable equipment grant requests include personal protective clothing, SCBA, communications equipment and other miscellaneous equipment. Eligible fire departments must serve a population of less than 25,000. The 2024 Grant cycle will have a total of $2 Million in funding available with half of these funds being specifically earmarked for volunteer fire departments. Allowable equipment grant requests include personal protective clothing, SCBA, communications equipment, and other miscellaneous equipment that is vital for the safety and effectiveness of Ohio’s firefighters.

The Fire Department Training Reimbursement Grant is also open and accepting applications for eligible classes completed in calendar year 2023. Fire Departments that provide primary fire protection to an area with a permanent population of 25,000 or less qualify for the grant. Reimbursement is available for specific fire training classes, including the cost of training manuals and student workbooks up to the maximum amount that is authorized. A total of $500,000 is available.

For more information or to apply, please visit the grants page on the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal’s website. For questions regarding either grant, contact the SFM Grants Administrator at CommerceGrants@com.state.oh.us