COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal has awarded approximately $2.52 million to fire departments across the state to better train and equip first responders and protect Ohio communities. The funds were awarded through SFM’s annual Equipment and Training Reimbursement grant programs for 2025.

This year, 141 departments in 70 counties will split more than $2 million to address critical equipment needs through the Fire Department Equipment Grant. Grant funds can be used to purchase items such as personal protective clothing, self-contained breathing apparatus and communications equipment.

Of the more than $2 million in grant funds, $498,486 has been awarded to 207 departments in 77 counties through the Fire Department Training Reimbursement Grant program. The grant specifically benefits those departments that provide fire protection to an area with a population of 25,000 or fewer residents. These funds can be used to participate in training classes and cover the cost of training manuals and student workbooks. Since 2020, the Division has awarded more than $2.7 million in Training Grants to Ohio fire departments.

Local departments receiving funds include:

Calcutta Fire Department: $3,400

East Liverpool Fire Department: $8,200

East Palestine Fire Department: $3,500

Franklin Township Volunteer Fire Department: $3,545

Liverpool Township Fire Department: $850

Winona Butler Fire Department: $950

Damascus Volunteer Fire Department: $2,543

Green Township Volunteer Fire Department: $850