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07/29/2023 09:30 AMPress Release from the Branford Fire Department
The Branford Fire Department (BFD) is delighted to announce its selection as recipients of a significant fiscal year 2022 Department of Homeland Security (DHS)/Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) award, in the amount of $422,931.98.
With this funding, BFD plans to launch an extensive rescue technician training program that aligns with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1006 and 2500 standards for technical rescue personnel professional qualifications and operations and training for technical search and rescue. Upon completion of the program, BFD firefighters will be certified to the technician level in crucial areas like vehicle and machinery, rope, confined space, and trench rescue.
BFD Chief Tom Mahoney expressed his sincere appreciation for the unwavering support of BFD’s congressional delegation, whose pivotal role ensures the continued availability of the AFG program.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude for their steadfast commitment in supporting our mission,” Mahoney stated.
BFD remains committed to enhancing the safety and capabilities of its brave firefighters, enabling them to respond effectively to any emergency situation. This grant award represents a significant step forward in BFD’s ongoing efforts to serve and protect our community.
The following AFG information is provided by FEMA:
The primary goal of the AFG is to meet the firefighting and emergency response needs of fire departments and non-affiliated emergency medical service organizations.
Since 2001, AFG has helped firefighters and other first responders obtain critically needed equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training, and other resources necessary for protecting the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards.
AFG program applications are reviewed through a multi-phase process. All applications are electronically pre-scored and ranked based on how well they align with the funding priorities outlined in the Notices of Funding Opportunities (NOFO).
Applications with the highest pre-score rankings are then scored competitively by no less than three members of a Peer Review Panel. Applications are also evaluated through a series of internal FEMA review processes for completeness, adherence to programmatic guidelines, technical feasibility, and anticipated effectiveness of the proposed project(s).