The Throop Volunteer Fire Department won't just be protecting the community, it'll also be informing it courtesy of a recently installed state-of-the-art sign.

The department coordinated several fundraisers to cover most of the sign's $27,000 cost. Fire Chief Brian Dahl said the placard's electronic messaging system is a big improvement from the roadside arrow it is replacing on Beech Tree Road in the town of Throop.

“We wanted something that was going to be nice for the building, something the community could be proud of,” he said.

The light-emitting diode, or LED, display will feature fire safety tips as well as department and community events. The time and temperature will also be flashed.

Several businesses and donors stepped up to get the sign installed, department Treasurer Frank Morgan said. The most recent message thanks the community for their support.

“We've gotten some good compliments on it,” Morgan said.

Donations can still be made to the sign fund care of the department, 7159 Beech Tree Road, Auburn NY 13021. Town residents or organization who would like to have an event featured on the sign can call the department at 252-4051.