GREENSBORO, NC – In an effort to maintain "front-line" firefighters, the federal government has awarded the Greensboro Fire Department more than $1,119,648 through its Staffing for Adequate Fire & Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program.
The SAFER grants are meant to help fire departments across the country hire new firefighters. The Greensboro Fire Department plans to hire 12 firefighters and assign a minimum four to all emergency response Engine and Ladder companies.
"Assigning four personnel to response units on a daily basis brings the department into compliance with National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards for fire suppression response," a news release explained.
Interim Fire Chief Bobby Nugent added, "This is exciting news for the City of Greensboro. For the men and women serving in our department, adequate staffing can mean the difference between life and death. This grant will ensure we have the recommended fire fighter staffing allowing the Greensboro Fire Department to continue to provide the highest level of service for its citizens while providing a safer emergency scene for our firefighters."
