By Crosby Grindle, MPA, EFO
The Western Fire Chiefs Association, in partnership with the International Association of Fire Chiefs, IAFC divisions, and state fire chiefs associations, created a cooperative procurement program 20 years ago to make it easier to buy the equipment fire departments wanted and save money in the process.
The FireRescue GPO has been serving the industry ever since and now offers even more value to the fire service by becoming part of Sourcewell, the largest government-based cooperative in North America. As part of this transition, the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs has established a new partnership with Sourcewell, your FireRescue GPO.
This program offers cooperative contracts for most of your purchasing needs that usually meet or exceed state and local procurement requirements. The fire service has unique equipment and service needs that may not be easily met with traditional “low-bid” solicitation processes. Using a nationally recognized government cooperative, such as Sourcewell, allows your department to meet your procurement requirements without having to conduct your own cumbersome RFP process. Using these cooperative contracts gives you access to national pricing when purchasing the brands your firefighters rely on every day.
Sourcewell is a self-sustaining government organization providing cooperative purchasing solutions to over 50,000 active public agency members across the United States. Over $6 billion is purchased by state and local governments through over 500 Sourcewell awarded contracts annually. Public safety specific contracts include fire apparatus, ambulances, firefighting equipment (including SCBA and turnout gear), training and simulation, wireless communications (including FirstNet and T-Mobile/Sprint), public safety communications technology and software, fleet vehicles, uniforms, and much more to come.
There is no cost to participate. Purchases are made directly between you and your dealer or contracted supplier. Contract documentation and staff support are readily available here. Even if you have been a member of FireRescue GPO in the past, you may still need to register with Sourcewell. Check your Sourcewell membership status or complete your registration today and start streamlining your procurement process. As an added bonus, when you use a FireRescue GPO/Sourcewell contract, revenue is used to support NYSAFC, the Eastern Division of the IAFC, and the IAFC.
New York State Association of Fire Chiefs