Fire grant available

Rural volunteer fire companies are eligible for grants of up to $7,500 to help fight brush and forest fires.

The Volunteer Fire Assistance grant program, administered by the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Bureau of Forestry, provides grants for training and equipment purchases directly related to fighting brush and forest fires, such as purchasing portable radios, installing dry hydrants and performing wildfire prevention and mitigation work.

The program is open to volunteer fire companies serving rural areas and communities with fewer than 10,000 residents.

Interested volunteer fire companies can apply for grants online at www.grants.dcnr.state.pa.us. The deadline to apply is May 19.