Fire departments responded to over
39.6 million calls
in 2021, up from 36.4 million in 2020.
In 2021 there were
1.4 million fires
in the United States. These Fires caused 3,800 civilian deaths and 14,700 civilian injuries.
In 2020
50% of all Fire Departments
Did not have enough portable radios to equip all emergency responders on a shift.
49% of all fire engines and pumpers were at least 15 years old in 2020.
9% were at least 30 years old.
The Impact of the Fire Grants and Safety Act
Jane Porter, Executive Director
The Safety and Fire Grants Act (S. 870) is significant legislation aimed at improving community safety by providing extended support for fire departments, emergency services, and their personnel until FY2030. It focuses on equipping firefighters, making grant funding more accessible, and mandating an audit for efficient resource allocation.
Key Provisions and Impact
The act reauthorizes key programs like SAFER and AFG until 2030, allocates increased funding to the United States Fire Administration, and promotes collaboration for a unified approach to fire safety and emergency response.
Bipartisan Support and Financial Commitments
The act, with broad bipartisan support, introduces a new provision requiring an audit to identify barriers to accessing federal funds, and includes specific restrictions on entities operating in China. It also includes significant financial commitments, with $95 million in total appropriations for the mentioned programs.
Enhanced Safety Measures and Resilience
The act enhances safety measures for firefighters and communities by providing essential resources and advanced personal protective equipment, improving their ability to safeguard against daily hazards.
S. 870 represents a significant advancement in the nation's commitment to fire safety and emergency preparedness, aiming to improve the resilience and effectiveness of fire departments and emergency services, with profound implications for national safety standards and continuous support for our emergency services infrastructure.
Contact your representative to learn if they support S. 870. Tell them YOUR vote depends on THEIR support!
About Firefighters and EMS Fund
Firefighters & EMS Fund is a tax-exempt political organization organized under Section 527 of the IRS Tax Code. Contributions are not tax deductible. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee.
