The Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance (TDCI) and the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO) have launched a new grant programme offering £3 million in aid to rescue squads across the state.
Starting from January 8, 2024, applications are being accepted for this initiative, which was made possible through funding approved by Governor Bill Lee and the General Assembly in 2022.
The Rescue Squad Grant Program is designed to support the purchase of lifesaving equipment by Tennessee’s rescue squads.
These grants will aid in equipping squads for incident response and ensuring the safety of their members.
In the previous year, the programme provided £2 million in grants to applicants.
Carter Lawrence, Tennessee State Fire Marshal and TDCI Commissioner, expressed the impact of the programme: “This valuable programme will help provide resources to Tennessee’s rescue squads while fulfilling Governor Lee’s vision of strengthening Tennessee’s rural communities.”
TDCI Assistant Commissioner for Fire Prevention, Gary Farley, highlighted the importance of the initiative for the rescue squad members: “The men and women who serve Tennessee communities in rescue squads embody the Volunteer State’s spirit at its finest.
It is a priority of our team to provide them with a way to acquire reliable and effective equipment to serve their communities in much the same way that the Volunteer Firefighter Equipment and Training Grant Program assists Tennessee’s volunteer fire departments.”
The programme is open to over 90 rescue squads across the state, providing a range of specialized services including extrication, structural collapse response, and swift water rescue.
To be eligible, squads must have an active registration with the Secretary of State and be recognized by a local government to provide rescue squad services.
Applicants should be aware of several important dates:
For further information on the grant process, applicants can contact Michelle Price, Director of Education and Outreach, at SFMO.grants@tn.gov or (629) 259-1713.
FSJA Comment
The introduction of the £3 million Rescue Squad Grant Programme by the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office marks a significant step in supporting the critical role of rescue squads in Tennessee.
This initiative not only highlights the state’s commitment to public safety but also acknowledges the vital contributions of the rescue squads.
These grants will enhance the operational capabilities of the squads, ensuring they are better equipped to respond to emergencies and protect their communities.
By investing in such vital resources, Tennessee is reinforcing its commitment to public safety and community welfare.
