The Franklin Township Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 has been awarded a $10,000 grant through the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

Township fire Chief Lynn Diehl said the fire department will utilize the grant toward miscellaneous equipment.

“We’re just purchasing some hoses, foam; basically supplies related to brush fires and forest fires, some boots,” Diehl said. “It’s a big help.”

State Rep. Doyle Heffley said the Franklin Township Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 will benefit from DCNR, which funds equipment purchases and training to battle wildfires.

“This funding will be put to good use by ensuring these local volunteers have the resources and training necessary to fight wildfires safely and effectively,” Heffley said.

Local firefighting forces in communities with fewer than 10,000 residents qualify for the aid, which is used for training and equipment purchases directly related to fighting brush and forest fires. Grants may be used for purchasing mobile or portable radios; installing water supply equipment; wildfire prevention and mitigation work; training wildfire fighters; or converting and maintaining federal excess vehicles.

A total of 132 volunteer fire companies were awarded $646,891 to help guard against the threat of wildfires in the state’s forests and other undeveloped areas.