The Covington Fire Department recently received a grant of $51,082 as part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) program.

 The grant will go toward the furnishing and maintenance of CFD’s Fireplace, a community-based fire safety house. All ages will be served by the house from school children learning how to exit a burning house safely to seniors being instructed on the safest methods of cooking and heating their homes.

  "This direct funding is essential to train and equip our first responders who protect lives and property against all hazards in our communities each day," said U.S. Fire Administration Acting Administrator Glenn A. Gaines. "The USFA and FEMA will continue to remain steadfast in our commitment to support America’s firefighters through these critical grant funds."

 The Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) program is an important component of the administration’s larger, coordinated effort to strengthen the nation’s overall level of preparedness.

 The AFG is designed to enhance response capabilities and to more effectively protect the health and safety of the public with respect to fire and other hazards. The grants enable local fire departments and emergency medical services organizations to purchase or receive training, conduct first responder health and safety programs, and buy equipment and response vehicles.

 Nationally, the fiscal year (FY) 2008 AFG awards will provide approximately $500 million to fire departments and nonaffiliated emergency medical service organizations throughout the country.

 The full list of past and current recipients and other Assistance to Firefighter Grant program information is posted on the AFG Web site at (www.firegrantsupport.com).

 To donate to the Covington Firehouse, call Smith at (770) 385-2155.