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County aims for FEMA fire prevention grant to buy simulated‑extinguisher training device
Summary
Public safety asked to apply for a FEMA Fire Prevention and Safety grant to buy a simulated fire‑extinguisher training system costing about $23,000; the presenter said the county cost share appears to be 5 percent this cycle rather than 20 percent listed in the agenda memo.
Public safety director Casey Dasher requested authorization to apply for the FEMA Fire Prevention and Safety grant to buy a simulated fire‑extinguisher training device and expand public risk‑reduction programs.
Project and cost estimate: Dasher said the device simulates a fire and allows participants to practice aiming and discharging a 5‑pound extinguisher using an infrared‑sensing trainer. He presented a projected equipment cost near $23,000 and initially noted an agenda memo that cited a 20 percent county cost share; Dasher said the grant notice he reviewed sets cost share at 5 percent this fiscal cycle, reducing the county’s out‑of‑pocket cost to roughly $1,011 on a $23,000 purchase.
Why the device: Dasher said the simulator has been popular when used at community events and can be used to train county employees and the public, which could support ISO community‑risk reduction metrics and help reduce property losses.
Board questions: commissioners asked about the device’s operation and whether it uses real extinguishing agents; Dasher demonstrated that the trainer simulates discharge with a realistic weight, sound and sweep technique but uses no fire agent.
Next steps: Dasher asked for authorization to apply; if awarded the grant would fund the purchase with a small county share.
