Initial data collected in early January show that Fireman's Fund Heritage distributed an estimated 429 grants in 2007, for an estimated total of $6.4 million. Some grant data are still outstanding.

This total includes grants directed through independent agents representing Fireman's Fund, and through Fireman's Fund employees participating in the Bucket Brigade. It does not include contributions from screenings of "Into the Fire" and the related sales of DVDs and clothing, or from grants donated by 500 For Life, both of which have resulted in thousands of more dollars for equipment for the fire services.

Since the Heritage program began in 2004, the total funds distributed to fire companies and other agencies is $16.5 million as of Dec. 31, 2007.

Under the Heritage program, Fireman's Fund employees and the company's network of independent agents work together to identify needs at local fire departments. Grants are issued, in part, to fill the voids left by growing budget cuts and lack of time for local fundraising activities. Donations average $20,000, but can range from $5,000 to more than $100,000.

Grants typically purchase such items as thermal imaging cameras, turnout gear, extrication equipment, portable radios, ventilation saws, nozzles, self-contained breathing apparatus sets, and medical defibrillators.

A notable achievement in 2007 was the Heritage program's partnership with Bullard, a manufacturer of thermal imaging cameras. As part of the arrangement, Bullard sells five thermal imaging cameras for the price of four to Fireman's Fund for its Heritage grants.

"Fireman's Fund is currently working on similar partnerships with selected other companies that manufacture equipment and gear for fire service and emergency professionals," says Ron Mori, Heritage program director at Fireman's Fund. "We expect to announce other partnerships in the coming months, which will help our grant dollars go farther than ever."