• SAFER grant application period draws to a close
• Fire life safety alarms language added to legislation
• National Emergency Number Association applauds passage of 911 improvement bill
• National Fire Academy FY2009 application deadline fast approaching
• Center for Domestic Preparedness celebrates decade of training

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program office is reminding fire departments and non-affiliated emergency medical organizations that the FY2008 fire grant application period, which began March 3, 2008, at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Standard Time, will end 5:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time on April 4, 2008. If you have started an application, please be sure to complete it and submit it before the deadline. All applications must be submitted (hit the submit button in the online application) to be considered for a grant award.

AFG makes available competitive grants for equipment, training, firefighter and first responder safety and response vehicles. AFG applications are automated and accessible via the AFG Web site: www.firegrantsupport.com. The Web site contains important information on the AFG, including the FY2008 funding priorities and program guidance, a Web-based tutorial on the application process, a listing of frequently asked questions, and other materials. Fire departments that have questions regarding this grant opportunity should contact the Help Desk at 1-866-274-0960 or at firegrants@dhs.gov.