GASTON COUNTY - According to the National Fire Academy, in 2005 arsonists set more than 52,000 fires in structures and vehicles, killing hundreds of people and causing millions of dollars in property damage.

To address this costly and dangerous issue, Gaston County has formed a Fire Investigation Task Force, that includes numerous local, State and Federal agencies.

In support of their efforts, Erie Insurance recently presented a check for $5,000 to the Gaston County Fire Marshal’s Office.  These funds will help maintain an Accelerant Detection Canine program for up to three years.

“Erie Insurance cares about this community and we hope our contribution gives the fire department the necessary tools to help make a significant difference,” said John Mohre, Assistant Vice President & Branch Manager of Erie Insurance’s Charlotte office.

The trained Accelerant Detection Canine “K-9” Colby, is a 4-year-old Labrador Retriever. She is owned and is trained by her handler Deputy Fire Marshal Justin Sellers and certified with the American Working Dog Association (AWDA). Colby has been on the job since June 2007 and has been instrumental in our on-going fight against arson.

“Having the accelerant detection canine program will be a tremendous help,” says the Fire Marshal’s Office.  “It will help improve the accuracy of our evidence collection while reducing our investigation time.”

“We share the Fire Marshal’s vision of being able to provide a better and wider response to the citizens of Gaston County,” added Bobby Black of Robert D. Black Insurance Services, Inc.