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Fire Department to send 22 firefighters to paramedic bridge program using FEMA AFG funds
Summary
Warwick Fire Department will use $102,740 of an existing $1,000,000 FEMA AFG grant to send 22 firefighters through an Educational Resources Group paramedic bridge program; overtime and backfill to be covered by the grant and no direct city payroll costs expected.
The Fire Department asked the finance committee to approve an Educational Resources Group award for a paramedic 'bridge' program for 22 firefighters at a total cost of $102,740, to be paid from an earlier awarded $1,000,000 Federal Emergency Management Agency Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG).
Assistant Chief Alan Gouveia explained the grant originally bought Scott packs and left approximately $380,000 in funding; $102,740 will pay training provider costs for 22 personnel (about $4,670 per student). The program is a shortened pathway for current EMT/ALS‑certified firefighters to obtain paramedic certification prerequisites and sit for the National Registry exam and state licensure. The department anticipates paying for overtime/backfill from the same grant so there is no immediate city payroll cost.
Councilors asked about scheduling and coverage. The department said clinical partners (Kent Hospital and the department medical director) will host many clinical hours; online weekly work (4–6 hours) will be required and not paid as overtime. If a participant withdraws early, substitutions depend on the program director’s authority; the department had screened and counseled interested staff before nomination. The department noted the grant performance period may require a routine extension from FEMA to complete the program within the period of performance.
Committee members supported the request and clarification that the AFG grant will reimburse overtime costs for coverage. The item will proceed on the consent calendar to finalize the contract award.
