FEMA awards Edinburg Fire Department funds for smoke alarms

EDINBURG, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Federal Emergency Management Agency has awarded a grant to the City of Edinburg Fire Department.

According to the city's news release, the grant will provide new smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms to Edinburg residents free of charge.

The federal funding is part of FEMA’s Fire Prevention and Safety Grant Program which is designed to enhance public safety. The program allows the Edinburg Fire Department to help residents over the age of 65, those with disabilities, those with children under 14, or residents meeting income-based qualifications, according to the news release.

The grant has already helped purchase 1,500 smoke alarms and 500 carbon monoxide alarms, which firefighters will distribute and install in homes to ensure maximum safety.

The grant, totals $23,674, with a contribution of $1,246 from the city of Edinburg, bringing the total amount of funds for this program to be spent by February 15, 2025, to $24,920.

“This free smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarm program is a tremendous benefit to our community and a great service provided by the City,” said Edinburg Fire Chief Omar Garza. “We are grateful to FEMA for recognizing the value of this program and providing this funding."

Residents interested in finding out if they are eligible can call the Edinburg Fire Department at (956) 383-7691 or to complete an application online click here.