Washington DC – Minnesota fire departments may be able to get much needed funding from a round of grants that was announced by Congressman Jim Oberstar today. The Department of Homeland Security is making $27.3 million available to help fire departments across the nation cut down on the number of fatal fires.

“This is an important program because it targets those who are at the greatest risk of dying in a fire,” said Oberstar. “In Minnesota we are finding that seniors are at risk.” The Minnesota State Fire Marshall’s office reports 30 fire fatalities so far this year, half of them have involved senior citizens.

Grants can be used to fund public education programs to reach out to groups who are most at risk. Applications for the grants will be accepted by the Department of Homeland Security until November 30, 2007.

Fire departments may get additional information about these grants or download applications at the following web sites: www.firegrantsupport.com and at www.grants.gov.

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