EPHRATA — A $25,000 grant from Gesa Credit Union allowed Grant County Fire District 13 to add a new extrication tool to its new rescue vehicle. 

“Sometimes what is reported to Dispatch can differ from what has occurred. Previously firefighters would have needed to return to the station to get different apparatus that holds our rescue tools,” according to a GCFD 13 press release. “This grant will ensure citizens and firefighters have initial extrication capabilities readily available when the situation changes rapidly.”

Fire District 13 Chief Jim Stuky said in the release that the new extrication tool will improve firefighters’ ability to respond when they are called.

“Without Gesa’s generous grant, this important tool would not have been possible,” Stucky wrote. “We are very grateful to Gesa for this important grant program.”

The tool will be part of the equipment stored on Rescue 1341, the district’s new vehicle. 

“It is used for rescue, medical aid and command on all incidents, including wildfires and structure fires,” the press release said. 

The grant was awarded through Gesa’s Local Heroes program, which provides money for first responders, firefighters, law enforcement, health care workers, teachers and veterans. Gesa President and CEO Don Miller wrote the company is proud to participate.

“Gesa is honored to support the local heroes in our community whose selfless dedication and unwavering commitment betters the lives of those across Washington,” Miller said.