The Leeds 1000 Islands Fire Services celebrated with Firehouse Subs on the recent $29,402 (twenty-nine thousand four hundred and two) grant they received through the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation of Canada.
Leeds 1000 Fire Services applied to the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation of Canada for funding to replace aging Cold Weather Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) originally purchased in 1995. Replacement of this PPE is critical to ensure firefighters can safely and effectively respond to life-threatening water emergencies in frigid conditions. The new equipment will also meet the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1006 compliance standards for Ice and Cold-Water Technical rescue. Specifically for the purchase of Ice Commander cold-weather submersion suits and personal flotation devices designed for cold and ice water rescue.
In the grant application, the Leeds 1000 Fire Services provided firsthand knowledge of the positive impact and outcomes this updated gear/equipment can have for firefighters as they support community members who find themselves capsized or fallen through the ice in cold, frigid temperatures.
Firehouse Subs owner, Ujjaval Patel spoke about the commitment the chain has to supporting Fire Services, through their foundation and how honoured they are to be directly supporting Fire Stations in the local area. Patrons can contribute all year long by rounding up their purchase, dropping their spare change into the donation jar, purchasing a pickle bucket for a $4 four-dollar donation. During the month of October, they have a special medallion donation drive called First Responders Month which again supports the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation.