STOCKHOLM -- The West Stockholm Volunteer Fire Department will soon be purchasing five new “Jaws of Life.”

The department is receiving $40,375 from the U.S. Department of Home Land Security and will use the funds to buy the new vehicle extraction devices, according to Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand.

The department will use the grant to purchase five pieces of rescue equipment known as “the jaws of life.”

The department’s current extraction equipment is more than 20 years old and is unable to cut through newer cars.

According to the release, most of the emergencies the department responds to are motor vehicle accidents.

“This is a much needed investment for St. Lawrence County,” said Sen. Gillibrand. “The West Stockholm Fire Department responds to many car accidents, and they need the right equipment to rescue anyone who is trapped in a vehicle. This funding will provide the critical tools the West Stockholm Fire Department needs to better serve their community and save more lives.”

Sen. Charles Schumer also praised the grant.

“These federal funds will provide the assistance that West Stockholm Fire Department needs to replace critical life-saving equipment. Firefighters are the first people on the scene of a car accident, and it’s crucial that we provide them with the equipment they need to do their jobs to the best of their ability,” said Sen. Schumer.”

The money was allocated through the Department of Homeland Security's Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program.