The application period is over and the waiting begins for departments that completed the application process for grants through the 2002 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program.

"We're thrilled with the response this year," said Marko Bourne, U.S. Fire Administration communications director. "We had more fire departments applying this year with an increase in what they've requested."

Bourne said just 13 paper applications were filed out of an estimated 20,000 total applications. Glitches with the new online application system lead the USFA to extend the online application period for five days, until April 5.

Beginning April 22, a peer review panel made up of more than 200 fire service professionals will review, rank and score the most competitive 7,000 to 8,000 applications.

Bourne said the first grants most likely will be distributed at the end of May and continue until the $360 million allocated for the program is distributed.

The technical assistance center, 866-274-0960, has set new operation hours of Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EDT. The center will continue to provide service to departments that received awards in 2001 and will maintain contact with 2002 applicants.