Kinston Fire & Rescue has been awarded a $25,000 grant from the Duke Energy Foundation to enhance its disaster preparedness capabilities. The funding will be used to purchase equipment for the department’s water rescue team, improving its readiness and response during tropical weather and other emergencies.

Mayor Dontario Hardy expressed gratitude during a presentation ceremony held at Fire Station 1. “Thank you to the Duke Energy team for everything you do to help cities and towns get what they need most, especially in disaster recovery and response,” Hardy said. “This grant is a big deal for our community and others across the state.”

Lauren Wargo, a representative from the Duke Energy Foundation, highlighted the importance of supporting proactive safety measures. “We’re excited that Kinston is taking proactive steps to prepare and train the force with the appropriate safety equipment to respond to water rescues,” Wargo said. “Today, we are proud to present a check for $25,000 to support these critical efforts.”

The grant will fund the purchase of life-saving equipment to aid the department in water rescues during floods or hurricanes. Fire Chief Chad Jackson emphasized the importance of these enhancements in a prepared statement. “The money awarded will provide funding to purchase life-saving equipment, which will allow the department to provide a higher level of service to the citizens and visitors of Kinston,” Jackson said. “We are excited to get the equipment, train our personnel in its use, and achieve a higher level of readiness and response.”

Kinston has faced numerous challenges related to tropical weather in recent years, making the grant a timely boost to the city’s emergency preparedness. Hardy acknowledged the city’s ongoing partnership with Duke Energy and expressed hope for further collaboration.

“This means so much to our city, and we look forward to continuing to build on this partnership,” Hardy said.

The new equipment will bolster Kinston Fire & Rescue’s ability to respond effectively during emergencies, enhancing safety for residents and visitors alike. “We’ve seen many instances where this equipment could have assisted in rescuing citizens,” Jackson said. “This grant will help ensure we’re ready when the need arises.”