MONROE

Two local fire departments received federal funding for new equipment.

Lanes Creek Volunteer Fire Department can replace 25-year-old extraction equipment with modern hydraulic tools that cut through harder metals on newer cars.

“Some of the older equipment would not cut through the metal,” Fire Chief Robert Sweatt said.

The department responds to wrecks on U.S. Highway 601 and

uses the equipment to free trapped passengers.

“Our firefighters in North Carolina deserve nothing short of the best tools, training and equipment,” U.S. Sen. Kay Hagan, D-N.C., said in a press release. “This funding will give our departments the resources to do what they do well: protect our North Carolina communities.”

Hagan announced in January that 29 fire departments will get more than $2 million through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant.

Lanes Creek got $33,250. Hemby Bridge Fire and Rescue received $182,970.

Hemby Bridge will use the money for 30 sets of turnout gear to split among its 56 firefighters. Each set includes boots, pants, a coat, gloves and a helmet.

“I’m tickled to death,” Hemby Bridge Fire Chief Johnny Blythe said. Given the economic downturn, the department doesn’t have money for the new equipment in its budget, Blythe said. The grant “alleviates some pressure” off of its finances.

Hemby Bridge also gets 18 air packs to replace some that are 15 years old. New air packs come with tracking systems that help locate fallen firefighters. Each pack also shows how much air is left.

Lanes Creek will give its old extraction equipment back the county. It may be given to a department that doesn’t have any, Sweatt said.

Blythe expects to have new turnout gear in the next three months.

The grant, funded by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, equips fire department and EMS organizations to respond to emergencies. Grant money can be used for training, equipment, wellness and fitness and health and safety modifications.