Local fire and rescue departments can begin applying for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant starting today.

The grant is designed to help meet the needs of firefighting and emergency responders as they continue to look for newer and more efficient ways of keeping as many people safe as they can.

At least that’s what Stuart Fire Chief Gary Fox has said his department uses the grant monies for.  Fox tells Raccoon Valley Radio that he will again be applying for AFG funds so that his firefighters can get updated extrication and safety equipment in the years ahead.

Fox says Stuart Fire has received AFG funding twice in his time with the department.  The funds have been used to purchase over $35,000 in extrication equipment and nearly $50,000 in new firefighting gear.

Fox says he will be asking the Region XII Council of Governments for help completing this year’s application.  The application period will run from now until December 6th.

Local departments interested in applying for FEMA’s grant can do so by CLICKING HERE.