U.S. Senator Richard C. Shelby (R-AL) today announced that the application period for the fiscal year 2006 Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) Program will open on Monday, March 6 and close on Friday, April 7, 2006. The grant program is offered through U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Sen. Shelby said, “I encourage those fire departments seeking assistance to complete an application to the Assistance to Firefighters Grants program. It is critical that our first responders have the necessary skills and equipment to address the needs of our communities. I am pleased that these grants will be available, and I am hopeful that many fire departments across Alabama will take advantage of this opportunity.”

The AFG program funds projects to purchase new equipment, improve firefighter health and safety programs, and improve the effectiveness of firefighting and emergency response operations. The AFG Program assists rural, urban, and suburban fire departments throughout the United States. Non fire-based EMS organizations may also apply for grants.

For more information or to obtain an application for the AFG Program, please visit www.firegrantsupport.com.