SAFER Application Period Begins November 16

November 4, 2009 – The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will begin accepting applications for Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grants beginning November 16, 2009, at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time. The application period will close December 18, 2009, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

Applications for $210 million in SAFER funding will be available through the Assistance to Firefighters (FIRE Act) web site, along with program guidance. A second application period will open in early 2010 for the $420 appropriated for Fiscal Year 2010.

Download SAFER Fact Sheet

As you may know, the rules governing the use of SAFER funds have changed. The IAFF wrote and lobbied to also make SAFER grants available to rehire fire fighters who have been laid off and bring back positions that are not being filled as a result of the current financial crisis. In addition, SAFER grants apply to municipalities that issued layoff notices before October 31, 2009, and have not yet taken effect. Grants will be expedited in order to deliver funds as soon as possible.

Municipalities with fire departments facing reduced emergency response capabilities should apply for SAFER funding. The IAFF urges affiliates to work with their fire chiefs and local lawmakers to file for the grants. City management must submit the application, but the IAFF is available to assist your community in applying for the grants.

The changes under the new law do not affect existing SAFER grants. The changes are not retroactive.