The Kent Volunteer Fire Department has received a technology grant from Walmart. 

The $500 will be used to purchase two Apple iPads for use on fire trucks.  Fire officials say the new technology will put critical tools at their fingertips - to access building pre-plans, locate nearest hydrant or water source to the location of the emergency, and see what other members are responding to a call. 

Firefighters will also be able to access federal database for identifying Hazardous Materials and an app to help locate airbags and compressed gas cylinders to aid in faster vehicle extrication. 

Fire Chief Alan Gawel says the department is using technology more and more to rapidly access critical information.  He notes that the iPads will save time and allow firefighters to access the most current data possible, which is vital in critical situations.