AFG Grants, Laundry Equipment & Preparation

Let’s be honest – nobody signs up for the fire service because they love writing grants. But when it comes to the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program, a little paperwork can make a huge difference for your department, your budget and most importantly – your crew’s health.

One area that too often gets overlooked? Laundry equipment. Yes, washers and dryers may not sound as exciting as a new engine or thermal imaging camera, but they’re absolutely critical for firefighter safety.

Clean Gear is Safe Gear

We all know that leaving soiled gear unwashed – or trying to clean it in a regular home washer – just doesn’t cut it. Over time, dirty gear increases cancer risks, weakens protective fabrics and puts firefighters at greater risk on the job.

That’s why Continental gear washers and dryers are so important. These machines clean and dry turnout gear according to NFPA 1851 standards. Even better, operation is simple. Just load, select a program and press start.

Enter the AFG Program

The AFG program, which helps fire departments secure critical safety equipment, regularly funds new Continental gear washers and dryers. But you’ve got to prepare appropriately so the open enrollment period doesn’t sneak up on you.

Step 1: Contact Your Continental Distributor
Your first step is to contact your Continental distributor – experts in NFPA-compliant laundry systems for protective  gear. They can help you:

• Identify the right equipment for your department size and call volume
• Provide technical specs and NFPA compliance details (essential for your application)
• Provide a quote, necessary for your budget section
• Offer insight into what other departments have successfully received through AFG

Step 2: Define the Problem Clearly
In your application, explain the risks of not having proper laundry equipment –gear deterioration, firefighter exposure to carcinogens, and reduced readiness. Tie everything back to firefighter health and safety.

Step 3: Show the Impact
Quantify how many sets of turnout gear will be cleaned, how often, and how this investment extends PPE life while reducing cancer risk. The more specific you are, the stronger your case.

Step 4: Back It Up With Data
Reference NFPA guidelines, cancer statistics in the fire service, and any department health concerns. Show reviewers that this isn’t just a convenience, it’s a life safety necessity.

Step 5: Submit Early and Follow Up
Grant deadlines creep up fast. Submitting early gives you breathing room in case something needs to be revised. Don’t wait until the last minute!

The Bottom Line

Clean gear equals safe gear. By applying for an AFG grant – and partnering with your Continental distributor from the start – you can give your department the tools it needs to protect firefighters now and into the future.