Lansing, MI — The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) is pleased to announce the award of $14,926,451 in grant funds to 187 fire and safety agencies across the state. These funds will be used to purchase an additional set of turnout gear for full-time career firefighters, enhancing their safety and readiness as they serve our communities.  

“Ensuring the safety and well-being of our firefighters is paramount,” said LEO Director Susan Corbin. “This grant will provide essential gear that allows our firefighters to respond more effectively to emergencies, protecting both themselves and the public. We are committed to supporting the brave men and women who put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe.”  

The Firefighter Turnout Gear program aims to assist full-time fire department with purchasing an additional set of turnout gear for full-time career firefighters. The additional set of gear consists of coat, pants, and boots, and allows full-time firefighters to be equipped with the latest personal protective gear on the market. The gear will provide full-time firefighters with a clean set of gear to switch into after a fire, instead of waiting until the end of the shift to properly clean the gear, improving response time. Now fire departments across Michigan will be able to provide a higher level of service to the communities by giving them the ability to return to service sooner with having an additional set of gear ready to go.    

The funds are a component of the Fiscal Year 2024 State Budget enhancement grants administered by LEO.  

"Michigan firefighters carry a tremendous amount of responsibility on their shoulders every day — they should not have to worry about their protective gear failing them on the job," said State Sen. Sarah Anthony (D-Lansing). "These grant funds will go a long way in supporting the operational needs of our state’s first responders."

“Firefighters are often called on consecutive runs, leaving them little time to properly clean and decontaminate gear,” said State Rep. Angela Witwer (D-Delta Twp.). These equipment grants will allow firefighters to continue keeping the public safe while preventing them unnecessary exposure from hazardous chemicals.”  

The Michigan Professional Firefighters Union played a crucial role in assisting with the grant process. Their collaboration ensured the needs of the firefighters were met and that the grant distribution was effective and equitable.  

The Michigan Professional Firefighters Union played a crucial role in assisting with the grant process. Their collaboration ensured the needs of the firefighters were met and that the grant distribution was effective and equitable. “The support from LEO and the additional turnout gear will significantly enhance the safety and operational readiness of our firefighters,” said Matthew Sahr, President of the Michigan Professional Firefighters Union. “This is a substantial step forward in ensuring that our members have the resources they need to perform their duties safely and effectively. We are grateful for the continued support and partnership.” 

This initiative underscores LEO’s commitment to the safety and well-being of Michigan’s first responders and the communities they serve.  

View a complete list of the firefighter grant awards here.

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