LOUISVILLE -- The Louisville Fire Department is getting $18,000 from the state to buy a new six-wheel all terrain vehicle.

It will allow them to respond to fire and other emergency calls in fields and wooded areas that are not easily accessible by a traditional fire engine, according to Sen. Patty Ritchie, R-Heuvelton, who announced the funding.

“Our department is tasked with responding to emergencies across the region and sometimes, it’s difficult to get to some of the more wooded forests and open fields with a big, bulky fire truck,” Louisville fire chief Jeff Vice said in a statement from Ritchie’s office. “Thank you Senator Ritchie for securing this funding for our department, which will allow us to respond more quickly to emergencies and help prevent the loss of life.”

“When emergency crews are called to the scene, every second counts and making sure these brave men and women have the tools they need to respond quickly—and safely—is key,” Ritchie said in a prepared statement. “I’m pleased to be able to deliver this funding to the Louisville Volunteer Fire Department, which will allow them to respond to emergencies in areas that a larger fire engine can’t easily get to, and in turn, help them save lives and protect property.”

Ritchie represents the 48th Senate District. It covers most of northern and western St. Lawrence County, including Ogdensburg, Canton and Gouverneur. It stretches to the south into Jefferson and Oswego counties.