By Bob Katzen

The Healey Administration announced $1.9 million in grants that will help 229 local fire departments deliver vital life safety education to school-aged children and older adults. The grants are for two longstanding fire safety programs coordinated by the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services. The Student Awareness of Fire Education (SAFE) program sends firefighter-educators into schools to deliver clear, consistent lessons to young people. The senior adult program is geared toward older adults and delivered through senior centers, councils on aging and home visits.

“No family should have to experience the tragedy of a preventable fire,” said Gov. Maura Healey. “That’s why we’re making sure kids, families and older adults across Massachusetts have the knowledge and support they need to stay safe at home — working with the firefighters they know and trust. We’re proud to deliver this support to nearly 230 communities and help protect families across our state.”

“We know that education and prevention save lives,” said Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll. “The SAFE program has helped drive down child fire deaths for decades, and we’re building on that success by reaching more families and older adults across Massachusetts. This is how we prevent tragedies and keep our communities safe.”

“Older adults face the highest risk of fire-related injury or death in the home,” said Public Safety and Security Secretary Gina Kwon. “The senior grants help firefighters reach residents with critical fire and fall prevention education, smoke and carbon monoxide alarm installations and home safety assessments that save lives and help make communities safer across Massachusetts.”