The Gamewell Fire Department recently received its first fire grant from the North Carolina Department of Insurance, and members used the money to purchase new equipment to help battle forest and other woodland fires.

Gamewell Fire Chief Keith Owens said he was able to purchase a slip-on unit for the department's brush truck for half price, thanks to a $7,250 grant from the state of North Carolina. He said the equipment, which went into service in late 2009, is used primarily for wildfires. He also said the new unit replaces equipment that is at least 15 years old.

"This new equipment has been a real benefit to this community," Owens said. "We have been able to update needed equipment, and we saved our citizens money at the same time."

Although the department has received several rescue grants from the state, Owens said this is the first time it has received a fire grant. He also noted that the department currently is applying for several more grants to purchase additional equipment.

The General Assembly established the Volunteer Fire Department Fund in 1988 to help volunteer units raise money for equipment and supplies. It is a 50/50 matching grant, and fire departments must receive approval from the state fire marshal's office before making the purchase.

Since the program began, more than $65 million has been distributed to volunteer fire departments across the state.

"Fire and rescue organizations protect our communities large and small across North Carolina, but sometimes their budgets don't grow with their responsibilities," said State Fire Marshal Wayne Goodwin. "Our emergency service personnel should be supported with the best equipment and supplies needed to do their jobs correctly and safely."