Staffing for adequate fire and emergency response (SAFER)

The County of Sumter, Georgia received a $265,200 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant (CFDA 97.083) from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on December 19, 2025. This three-year project, extending through December 18, 2029, funds firefighter hiring and volunteer recruitment and retention efforts to help the county meet industry minimum staffing standards and maintain adequate 24-hour fire and emergency response capabilities. The grant supports the county's ability to fulfill traditional fire department missions and enhance public safety in the Americus, Georgia region.

The SAFER program, administered by FEMA, provides direct operational funding to eligible local government entities to address firefighting workforce challenges. Award recipients are selected through a multi-phase, merit-based process that evaluates project descriptions, financial need, operational impact, and cost-benefit analysis. The county's award positions Sumter County to strengthen its emergency response infrastructure, consistent with its broader federal grant portfolio focused on fire services and emergency management enhancement.