Multiple Plans of Education May Give You the "Edge"

Mobile Concepts by Scotty is the only company to design and manufacture the Sprinkler Demonstration Trailer that is approved under the FP&S program and is built with the same features as their popularly-approved SCOTTY Fire Safety House.

"While applying for the grant, keep in mind that the bigger the scope of the project, the more favorable your application may look. For example, if your program encompasses fire prevention, severe weather training, sprinkler demonstration, Risk Watch(TM) and injury prevention year round, DHS may look more favorably upon your application," explained Degre.
 
DHS and the National Fire Sprinkler Association, as well as Mobile Concepts, are promoting awareness for residential sprinkler installation.
 
These vehicles are used to educate the public on the effectiveness of residential sprinklers as well as debunking common myths about the systems. In addition this product allowsdepartments and organizations to continue teaching the same lessons as those with a SCOTTY Fire Safety House.
 
The sprinkler education program can be compared to the smoke detector educational programs of the 1970s. People did not know what they were, and the rumors about them were running rampant. The same can be said for the residential sprinkler initiative. The only way to raise awareness is through public education.

How to Prepare a Narrative for Procurement of a Trailer Under the Fire Prevention and Safety Grant Application in 3 Easy Steps

Be sure your department has applied for a DUNS number and CCR before you begin the steps below.
 
Applying for grant money can seem daunting, but when you have the right information to guide you through the application, the process can run smoothly. Whether you've been turned down in the past or simply don't know where to start, do not let that deter you from applying. The steps below can make the difference between an unrewarding experience and success.
 
Number 1- Review the Guidance from the current year. Carefully and completely read each section. It is important that you follow the guidelines exactly.
 
"I like to compare the Guidance to a test review in school, says Anne Degre, president of the 50 year old company that builds the original SCOTTY Fire Safety House. "If you are paying attention, the teacher tells you what will be on the test. The Guidance does the same thing."
 
Each year the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) prepares this outline for fire departments. Although slight changes can occur, the basic concept of the process and requirements remains steady.
 
Number 2- Once you have reviewed the guidance, you have the option to contact a professional grant writer or move forward yourself with the project.
 
Either way, Mobile Concepts suggests contacting departments whom have had success with obtaining an FP&S grant.
 
Number 3- Once you have a grasp on what to include in your narrative and an idea of how to incorporate into an easy read document, you can begin your research.
 
Gathering local statistics is essential in proving your department's critical need for a fire prevention education trailer.
 
"One of the biggest obstacles for departments is waiting too long to begin this process. I always stress to interested customers to start early. Don't wait until the last minute. Providing strong factual evidence can only favor your narrative, and if you don't have sufficient time to gather these materials, you're narrative may suffer," suggests Degre.
 
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Statistics to collect that support your case

• number fire calls
• fire related deaths and injuries
• monetary total of fire destruction
• number of citizens you serve
• expected community growth
• number of schools, daycares, colleges/universities, 
    hospitals, senior or retirement homes
• economic conditions of your area
• amount of NFPA identified at risk target audience
• your department's yearly budget and expenses
• number of firefighters on staff
• amount of money you are requesting-
    contact Mobile Concepts for a quote
• fundraising plan for match portion
• the previous year's national fire statistics
• a list of additional local organizations willing to work
  with you to promote fire prevention awareness
  programs
• a plan that details testing and evaluation of the   effectiveness of your fire prevention program if   awarded the funds

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Mobile Concepts suggests that departments keep applying. "You may get your grant the very first time, or it may take several attempts, but do not give up. Your time is coming. The money is out there," says Kim Tuscan, marketing coordinator for Mobile Concepts.
 
To contact Mobile Concepts about any of their products, go to www.MobileConcepts.com 
 
*A DUNS number is a randomly assigned identification number issued by Dunn and Bradstreet, Inc. and required by DHS.
 
**CCR stands for Central Contractor Registration and also is required to do business with the federal government. CCR collects general information about a company. Your organization first must have a valid DUNS number and provide your organization's Federal Tax Identification Number (TIN).

GRANT APPLICATION PERIOD CLOSES

Friday, October 23, 2009 at 5pm, est.

CLICK HERE for 2009 FP&S Grant Guidance  

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