MIDDLEBORO — The Middleboro Fire Department will purchase a “quick attack’’ vehicle that is smaller and more nimble than a traditional fire truck with a nearly half-million dollar grant from the federal government, Fire Chief Owen Thompson said.

This “smaller, multi-purpose vehicle’’ can be used in medical emergencies and to access roads that can be challenging for larger equipment to maneuver, Thompson said.

“We’re excited about it,’’ Thompson said. “This is a new venture for the department.’’

A Federal Emergency Management Agency Assistance to Firefighters grant of $428,014 was awarded to the Middleboro Fire Department, U.S. Rep. William Keating announced Monday, July 31.

“As we are at peak high season for our communities, having our first responders be as well-equipped as possible is of the utmost importance,” Keating said. “Day in and day out these men and women risk their lives for us. I am glad that we can provide them with the tools they need to do that as safely as possible.”

The smaller vehicle to be purchased by Middleboro will hold 300 gallons of water, Thompson said, and can be utilized to tackle car fires and other relatively small incidents. 

The federal grant will save Middleboro taxpayers money, the chief said. 

Plans had been discussed to purchase a similar quick attack vehicle next year. With the grant money now covering the cost of that vehicle, “it’s great for the taxpayers,’’ Thompson said.

“The members of the Middleboro Fire Department are extremely grateful for this award,’’ said Thompson. “The new apparatus the funds will allow us to purchase will help better equip our firefighters to meet the needs of our constantly evolving mission.’’

The new vehicle has not yet been purchased, Thompson said. The department is reviewing options from various manufacturers, the chief said.