More firefighters planned for Elmira, Binghamton departments thanks to federal funding

Two Southern Tier fire departments received some welcome news Tuesday that will result in the hiring of more frontline firefighters.

The Elmira Fire Department will be able to hire additional firefighting personnel and update its equipment with the help of more than $1.36 million in federal funding, while the Binghamton Fire Department will hire up to eight new firefighters with over $1.8 million in funding.

The money comes through the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) program.

"Across the Southern Tier, brave firefighters risk their lives on the frontlines every day rushing to danger to protect our communities," Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) said. "I stood with firefighters across Upstate New York to push for the reauthorization of the SAFER program because I know how important it is for our first responders to be prepared."

How Elmira will utilize SAFER funding

The funding will enable the Elmire Fire Department to add one firefighter to each of its four shifts for a period of three years, for up to four new firefighters.

The grant will also allow the fire department to upgrade its equipment, according to Fire Chief Andrew Mallow.

"With rising calls and additional strain on department resources, this grant will allow the department to add additional staff to operate safely and effectively," Mallow said.

"We are hoping to use the additional staff to add a rescue truck to our first due response," he added. "This apparatus would offer additional specialized tools and equipment, a quicker response, and cut down on wear and tear on our larger apparatus."

How Binghamton will utilize SAFER funding

The funding will help the Binghamton Fire Department bring its staffing closer to National Fire Protection Association standards with eight new hires.

The funding is expected to help the department with challenges related to overtime, retirements and staffing requirements.

"It's been many years since Binghamton received this kind of funding support for firefighter staffing and it will make an immediate impact on our community's public safety," said Binghamton Mayor Jared Kraham.

"We're pleased that Binghamton was awarded in a highly-competitive process, with a thanks to our federal lawmakers - especially Senator Chuck Schumer - for advocating to secure the resources our fire department deserves."

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SAFER program increasing number of trained firefighters

According to FEMA, the SAFER program was created to provide funding directly to fire departments to help increase the number of trained frontline firefighters available in communities.

The program aims to enhance local fire departments' abilities to comply with staffing, response, and operational standards established by the National Fire Protection Association, FEMA said.

"Elmira’s firefighters play an essential role in safeguarding our community, and this significant federal investment will allow the department to expand its team and enhance emergency response capabilities," said U.S. Rep. Nicholas Langworthy, R-23rd District. "This SAFER grant will help ensure the Elmira Fire Department is ready and able to meet the local demand for fire and emergency services, protecting local families, homes, and businesses."

Since their inception, the Assistance to Firefighters Grant and SAFER programs have delivered almost $700 million to firefighters across New York, according to Schumer.

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This article originally appeared on Elmira Star-Gazette: More firefighters planned for Elmira, Binghamton departments thanks to federal funding