TOPEKA, Kan. —The Office of the State Fire Marshal awarded much needed funds to 89 fire departments in Kansas through the Kansas Firefighter Recruitment and Safety Grant Program, totaling $1.3 million.
This year, over $2.4 million was requested by 97 volunteer/part-time fire departments in Kansas for safety gear, washer/extractor machines and junior firefighter programs. Departments received close to $1.2 million to be used for safety gear, $106,000 for 20 washer/extractor machines, and $1,200 for the junior firefighter programs. Due to the high number of requests, OSFM will be requesting the 2023 Legislature continue funding this important grant.
Area fire departments receiving funds include:
Harvey County Fire District #1
Hesston Fire & EMS Department
Little River Fire Department
McPherson County Rural Fire District #2
McPherson Fire Department
Pratt County Township #6 Fire Department
Pratt Fire Department
Reno Township Fire Department
South Hutchinson Fire Department
Volunteer and part-time fire departments face recruitment and retention challenges because they do not have the funding to provide safety equipment. Without new equipment provided by the recruiting fire department, potential volunteers are faced with not only donating their time but also providing their own safety gear, sharing gear with others, or doing without.
There is also a proven increase in cancer diagnoses for firefighters, which can be caused by prolonged exposure to carcinogens, particulates, and biohazards. The proper gear, regular cleaning of that gear and equipment, along with preventative healthcare is crucial for a firefighter’s health and well-being.