SAFER Grant Resource Hub
Your central resource for SAFER Grant information, reimbursement procedures, required documentation, and assistance from the Wisconsin State Fire Chiefs Association.
Supporting Wisconsin Fire Departments
Resources to Help You Navigate SAFER Funding
WSFCA is committed to helping participating Wisconsin fire departments access and administer Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant funding. Find the forms, guidance, and information you need to prepare reimbursement requests and meet grant requirements.
Grant Forms & Resources
Access the forms needed to prepare your reimbursement requests and supporting documentation.
Required Form
Reimbursement Request Form
Complete this form when requesting reimbursement for eligible expenses under the WSFCA SAFER Grant program. Review the form for required supporting documentation.
Download Reimbursement Form →Health Screening
NFPA 1582 Health Screen Form
Access the NFPA 1582 Health Screen Form for health screening documentation associated with applicable SAFER Grant requirements.
Download Health Screen Form →About the SAFER Grant
The Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant Program, administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), provides funding to help fire departments increase or maintain frontline firefighter staffing and strengthen emergency response capabilities.
The federal program includes firefighter hiring and volunteer firefighter recruitment and retention activities. WSFCA provides administrative support and guidance for departments participating in its SAFER Grant project.
WSFCA Grant Reference Date: December 24, 2024. Expenses must fall within the applicable approved grant period and meet the requirements of the award.
How to Submit a Reimbursement Request
Participating departments should follow these steps when preparing and submitting reimbursement requests.
Review Grant Requirements
Before incurring or submitting expenses, confirm that the purchases or activities are allowable under the approved SAFER Grant and FEMA requirements.
Complete Required Documentation
Complete the reimbursement request form and gather all required supporting documents identified in the form. Ensure purchases have been completed before requesting reimbursement.
Submit Your Reimbursement Request
Email the completed reimbursement form and supporting documentation to the WSFCA SAFER Grant team.
safer@wsfca.comReview & Reimbursement Processing
WSFCA reviews submissions for completeness and compliance before processing reimbursement. Departments may be contacted if clarification or additional documentation is needed.
Reimbursement Guidelines
To help avoid delays in the reimbursement process, participating departments should follow these guidelines:
- Submit reimbursement requests according to established deadlines.
- Ensure all documentation is complete, accurate, and legible.
- Confirm that expenses fall within approved grant categories.
- Purchase equipment before submitting reimbursement requests.
- Retain copies of all forms and supporting documentation.
Incomplete or late submissions may delay reimbursement. Processing times vary based on submission volume, documentation requirements, and federal processing timelines.
Reporting & Recordkeeping
Participating departments are responsible for maintaining records and meeting the reporting requirements associated with their SAFER Grant participation.
- Maintain accurate staffing records.
- Track funded positions and expenditures.
- Submit required reports by established deadlines.
- Retain grant-related documentation for audit purposes.
- Complete equipment purchases before requesting reimbursement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about participation, eligible expenses, documentation, and reimbursement.
Who can participate in WSFCA's SAFER Grant?
WSFCA member fire departments may participate, subject to the requirements and eligibility of WSFCA's approved SAFER Grant project.
How do I submit a reimbursement request?
Complete the reimbursement request form and email it, along with the required supporting documentation, to safer@wsfca.com.
What documentation is required?
Refer to the reimbursement request form for specific documentation requirements. Incomplete submissions may delay processing.
How long does reimbursement take?
Processing times vary depending on the completeness of the submission, volume of requests, and federal review requirements. Departments will be notified if additional information is needed.
How many sets of PPE can my department submit for reimbursement?
Departments may submit requests for as many sets of PPE as needed. However, reimbursement for every submitted set is not guaranteed.
WSFCA's published guidance identifies reimbursement of up to $3,000, with possible additional reimbursement if funds remain available. Contact WSFCA to confirm how this limit applies to your department's request before purchasing equipment.
Can expenses be submitted retroactively?
Only expenses incurred within the approved grant performance period, identified by WSFCA as beginning after December 24, 2024, and meeting applicable FEMA requirements may be eligible. Departments should confirm eligibility before submitting expenses.
Who should I contact with questions?
Contact the WSFCA SAFER Grant team at safer@wsfca.com or call (414) 501-2603.
Important Reminders
- Review applicable grant requirements before incurring expenses.
- Keep copies of all submitted reimbursement documentation.
- Submit complete requests according to established deadlines.
- Contact WSFCA early if you have questions about eligibility or documentation.
Need Assistance with Your SAFER Grant?
The WSFCA team is available to help participating departments navigate reimbursement procedures, documentation requirements, and grant-related questions.
WSFCA SAFER Grant Support
Email: safer@wsfca.com | Phone: (414) 501-2603
