On Oct. 16, the Forbes Road Career and Technology Center in Monroeville hosted an impactful event focused on developing relationships and fostering knowledge-sharing between emergency responders and students. The all-day event featured discussions and hands-on activities for students in the Criminal Justice/Police Science program led by educators Jonathan Miles and Jolene Davis, who gained valuable insights into the world of traffic incident management.

Evan Schoss, SPC's Manager of Transportation Operations and Safety, joined forces with leaders from PennDOT District 11, including Alan Hausman, Tyler Tomasino, Nate Darwin, and Vern Davis, as well as Gannett Fleming TranSystems’ Chuck Yorks, to present valuable field perspectives. PennDOT contributed retired traffic control devices—signs, cones, and stands—to the center, giving students the chance to practice real-world traffic control and safety measures.

The program partners pledged ongoing support for this and other educational initiatives, with a commitment to enhancing student exposure to incident management practices. SPC encourages other educators interested in similar sessions to reach out to Evan Schoss at eschoss@spcregion.org.

This day also hosted the monthly TIM (Traffic Incident Management) meeting, where participants welcomed IncidentClear, the firm overseeing PennDOT’s Freeway Service Patrol, into the TIM network, strengthening collaboration for safer, more effective roadside incident responses.

Our organization recognizes November 18-22 as Crash Responder Safety Week across the region. This initiative, promoted by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), aims to remind everyone of the importance of staying alert and ensuring the safety of responders during roadside incidents. Too many responders are injured or lose their lives each year due to motorists who ignore the Move Over law or drive distracted, putting both responders and other motorists at risk.

We urge everyone to spread the word by sharing safety reminders on social media throughout Crash Responder Safety Week. Here are key points to remember:

• Move Over: Pennsylvania law requires that drivers move over to leave a lane free when passing an active incident scene. If unable to do so safely, slow down significantly.
• Clear the Lanes: Law requires that, when possible, drivers involved in an incident move their vehicles to a safe area, reducing the risk of further accidents.
• Stay Alert: Responders might be saving lives on the scene, so all drivers must stay vigilant, watch for lights or signs, and be mindful of sirens.

Let’s make Southwestern Pennsylvania a safer place for everyone by remembering to move over, slow down, and always pay attention.

The growing presence of hybrid, electric, and driverless vehicles brings new and complex challenges for responders, as highlighted in recent discussions within our Traffic Incident Management (TIM) program. Responders shared concerns about the unique risks posed by electric and autonomous vehicles and discussed approaches to safe and efficient responses.

Electric vehicles require responders to be aware of distinct dangers, such as the potential for intense battery fires, which can reach higher temperatures and often require up to ten times the water of a typical fire to fully extinguish. Even after suppression, the risk of reignition remains. With each vehicle model’s unique design and safety specifications, having accurate, model-specific emergency guides on hand is essential for effective incident management.

Driverless vehicles add another layer of complexity, as responders must ensure these vehicles are blocked from moving unintentionally while responding to incidents. As more hybrid, electric, and driverless cars take to the roads, our TIM program continues to equip responders with knowledge and resources to navigate these evolving challenges. SPC encourages responders and the public alike to stay informed and support safety initiatives that prepare our region for new vehicle technologies.

We do the research so you don’t have to! Our organization is happy to provide you with an updated list of funding sources that could potentially benefit your organization. The content below represents the most accurate information based on our research, but always check the organization websites for deadlines and other important information updates.

PENN NATIONAL GAMING FOUNDATION (PNGF)

Due Date: Quarterly July 1, October 1, January 1, April 1

Funding is intended for community development, human services, education, cultural affairs and diversity, and health.

Foundation grants shall generally fall in the following categories:

• Community Development: Projects and programs related to community infrastructure improvements, public safety, economic development, housing, historic preservations, citizen involvement, civic leadership training, and other general community activities.

• Education: Programs which support pre-school, elementary, secondary education, post-secondary education, and special education programs.

• Human Services: Programs which address the needs of children and youth, senior citizens, and disadvantaged populations, especially in times of natural or man-made disaster.

• Cultural Affairs and Diversity: Programs and facilities designed to foster an understanding, appreciation, and celebration of different cultures and encourage participation among individuals of different cultures and belief systems.

• Health: Local health and medical-related programs.

•Veteran and Military Support: Programs that provide support and services to veterans, active members of the military and their families.

Applicants must have tax-exempt status under section 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code, and must be physically located in the city, town or region where Penn National Gaming has a business interest. Click here to learn more.

ERIE INSURANCE COMPANY

Due Date: Under $10,000 can submit at any time. Amounts over $10,000 should be submitted by January 24, 2025.

Erie believes in investing in its communities and in the lives of others in three key focus areas - Community Building, Safety, and Environmental Responsibility. Your agency can submit a funding request under $10,000 for consideration at any time. Click here to learn more.

FIREFIGHTERS CHARITABLE FOUNDATION (FFCF)

Due Date: Ongoing

Grants to USA organizations and fire departments to respond to fires and disasters and offer assistance to victims. Individuals impacted by a fire or disaster may also apply for financial assistance. Organizations may request funding for services for victims, as well as educational programs. Fire departments may request funding for equipment, supplies, maintenance, repairs, educational programs, and aid to fire victims. Click here to learn more.

LT. JOSEPH P. DIBERNARDO MEMORIAL FOUNDATION

Due Date: January 1, 2025

The Lt. Joseph P. DiBernardo Memorial Foundation provides grants to fire departments in need of personal safety PSS systems. If your department is in the U.S. or Canada and does not have means to this important safety equipment, please download and submit the 2024 grant application. Click here to learn more.

GIANT EAGLE

Due Date: See website for details

Annually, Giant Eagle, its team members and customers contribute to communities through a variety of means. These include sponsorships and direct donations, product support and volunteer commitment. Focus areas are hunger relief, health & wellness, education, and community enrichment. Click here to learn more.

GARY SINISE FOUNDATION

Due Date: See website for details

Through the Gary Sinise Foundation's First Responders Outreach, help is provided in obtaining critical funding for emergency relief, training, and essential equipment to ensure these heroes perform to the best of their abilities. The Foundation also helps those who are severely wounded in the line of duty by building 100% mortgage-free, specially adapted smart homes, as well as home modifications, mobility devices, and adapted vehicles to restore their mobility and independence. Click here to learn more.

FIREHOUSE SUBS

Due Date: See website for details

Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation was founded in 2005 in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The Foundation offers funding in the areas of Lifesaving Equipment, Prevention Education, Scholarships/Continued Education, Disaster Relief, and Military Member Support. Click here to learn more.