National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) launches trio of beneficial programmes for volunteer firefighters this summer

MSA Cairns XF1 Fire Helmet Giveaway: Helping Firefighters Stay Protected

In an effort to further support its members, the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has announced the second entry period for the MSA Cairns XF1 Fire Helmet giveaway. The helmet, noted for its innovative, jet-style design that reduces snag hazards, incorporates a personalised fit and has its own integrated light module. The helmet giveaway offers active US volunteer firefighters, who are also NVFC members, the chance to bolster their protective gear at no cost.

NVFC has outlined the eligibility criteria, requiring applicants to be active volunteer firefighters in the US and members of the NVFC. Those interested in applying for the helmet giveaway, which concludes on June 30, can find more information on the NVFC’s website. The lucky recipient, chosen randomly, will be announced in July.

Columbia Southern University Scholarships: Fostering Education for Volunteer Responders

Recognising the challenges volunteer responders face in managing their time between service and education, NVFC is teaming up with Columbia Southern University (CSU) for the 15th year to present a scholarship opportunity. Two NVFC members will be awarded scholarships that cover up to 60 credit hours towards any one CSU online degree programme.

Eligibility requirements include being a volunteer responder and NVFC member, having a high school diploma or equivalent, and meeting certain academic standards. The wide range of degree programmes offered by CSU includes fire science, fire administration, emergency medical services, emergency management, and many more. The deadline to apply for these scholarships is August 17. An NVFC scholarship committee will choose the recipients, to be announced in October 2023.

CHEMTREC HELP Award: Grant to Boost Hazmat Preparedness and Response

Aiming to improve local readiness for hazardous materials (hazmat) events, CHEMTREC, through its HELP Award, will provide four volunteer fire departments with $10,000 each in 2023. This marks the fifth year of the programme that has already extended $115,000 to 12 departments for enhancing their hazmat response capabilities.

Departments wishing to apply for the HELP Award must meet several eligibility criteria, including serving a population of 25,000 or less, and having more than 50% volunteers. The grant also mandates that the department’s chief or the individual applying on behalf of the department must be an NVFC member. The application period for the grant closes on September 1. More details about the HELP Award can be found on CHEMTREC’s website.