The Federal Emergency Management Agency of the Department of Homeland Security has notified Longwood Fire Company and Avondale Fire Company that they are receiving a safety award.

Longwood was the host company for the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant. The $198,000 grant will be split between the two companies for recruiting new members and retaining current members.

“Our volunteers receive extensive training,” said Longwood chief A.J. McCarthy. “This federal grant will help us provide the best possible service for our residents.”

FEMA notified Longwood last week.

The grant provides money for volunteer firefighters to receive incentive payments for obtaining additional training, providing dedicated station staffing to ensure quicker emergency responses and other fire company activities. New recruits are eligible for additional training incentives to offset loss of wages while attending training. The grant has a three-year performance period and requires a substantial amount of documentation.

For more information, visit www.longwoodfireco.com.