Fire departments across Berrien County will benefit from a new $136,550 Regional Incident Command Training Grant, while the Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety has also secured a separate award to replace firefighter gear.

According to the Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety, the regional grant will continue to bring Blue Card and B Shifter training to more than a dozen local departments, including Benton Harbor, Benton Charter Township, St. Joseph, Lincoln Township, North Berrien, Watervliet, Chikaming Township, Bridgman, Niles, Royalton Township, Three Oaks, Galien, New Buffalo Township, Weesaw Township, and Buchanan Township.

The program includes online courses, a simulation lab, and workshops on mayday management, big box operations, strategic decision-making, and division operations.

In addition to the regional award, Benton Harbor was approved for a $109,714 FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant to purchase 24 new sets of personal protective equipment, including helmets, gloves, coats, boots, and hoods. Officials say the gear will replace outdated equipment and improve firefighter safety.

Benton Harbor officials noted the PPE grant is especially significant, as the city had applied for it for five consecutive years before receiving it.