The Purchase Fire District is located in the Town of Harrison, New York.  The district covers approximately ten square miles within the town.

The Purchase Fire District was formed by an act of the New York State Legislature in 1936.  The Purchase Fire District was known as Harrison Fire District No. 4 when it was formed.  The name was officially changed in 2000.  The Purchase Fire District is one of hundreds throughout New York State.

The district is governed by a board of fire commissioners consisting of five commissioners, a secretary, and a treasurer.  Fire commissioners are elected by the voters of the district for a five year term.  In order to qualify for election as a commissioner, the person must reside within the district.  One commissioner is elected each year on the second Tuesday in December.  The secretary and treasurer are appointed annually by the board.

All fire districts in New York State are governed by laws set forth by the state legislature.  The Board of Fire Commissioners is responsible for providing fire protection within the district.  The board prepares and submits a budget to the town on an annual basis.  The town collects the taxes for the district.  These funds are used to build and maintain fire stations, to purchase and maintain fire apparatus, and to establish a fire department.  The money is also used for things such as fire hydrant rental, insurance, utilities, fuel, and a retirement program for the volunteers.