Securing the Homeland: State invests more than $22 million in local fire departments

The New Mexico State Fire Marshal’s Office has awarded more than $22 million in grant funding to 69 fire departments across the state, aiming to strengthen emergency response, ensure firefighter safety and bolster firefighter recruitment incentives. 

This year’s funding supports a wide range of investments from new fire engines, radios and water systems to station improvements and personal protective equipment. It also supports stipends that help volunteer departments recruit and retain firefighters — a critical need for many rural areas. 

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“These grants go directly to the front lines,” said State Fire Marshal Randy Varela. “Investing in local departments, especially those with limited resources, can enhance firefighter safety, provide better fire protection services to New Mexicans, and improve their Insurance Services Office (ISO) ratings.” 

Funding for these grants comes from the state’s Fire Protection Fund, which reinvests a 3% premium on insurance policies back into local fire departments. This annual funding aims to provide communities statewide with the tools, training and facilities needed to protect lives and property. These investments also help improve ISO ratings, which can decrease insurance rates for residents. 

The Fire Grant Council, comprised of seasoned firefighters from across New Mexico, reviews and ranks applications each year to ensure that funding is distributed fairly and strategically based on community need.