Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation announced the award of a $20,257 grant to North Whidbey Fire and Rescue to ensure first responders have the necessary equipment to keep community members and themselves safe. The grant will be used to purchase thermal imaging cameras, fulfilling a critical need within the department.

Chief Chris Swiger thanked the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation and the Firehouse Subs in Mount Vernon for the award.

“Providing first responders with the right tools is crucial for them to successfully do their jobs,” he said.

The new thermal imaging cameras — also known as TIC’s — will be used to improve a firefighter’s ability to navigate a structure that is on fire and avoid casualties and further damage to properties. The TICs give firefighters a clear view into the darkest and smokiest environments. When conducting a quick initial search for victims, the heat-sensitive thermal imaging cameras will allow firefighters to save time by helping them identify hot spots.

TICs are also used during ground searches for missing people. These scenes can be hectic and time-consuming, especially considering the timeframe to locate victims. TICs can aid in tracing the lost victims by detecting heat that is given off by the human body and signaling the victim’s location to the rescuer for easy assistance. The features of thermal imaging cameras enable it to see the heat radiated through deep shadows and blocked regions and in different weather conditions.

Having the appropriate tools on hand makes all the difference in allowing first responders to effectively serve their communities and save lives. For the past 18 years, donations have been the driving force behind Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation supporting first responders and public safety organizations nationwide.

In 2005, the Firehouse Subs founders established the nonprofit Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation. The charity provides lifesaving equipment, prevention education, scholarships and continued education and disaster relief for first responders and public safety organizations, as well as support for military veterans.

Since inception, the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation has awarded more than $79 million to hometown heroes in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Support for Canadian first responders is provided through the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation of Canada. The Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation is listed as a four-star nonprofit organization, the highest designation, by Charity Navigator. Charity Navigator is the nation’s largest and most-utilized evaluator of charities.

Grant allocations are made possible thanks to the overwhelming support of Firehouse Subs restaurants and generous donors. More than 70% of the funds raised for the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation come from the generosity of Firehouse Subs guests and the restaurant brand.

To learn more about Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation or donate directly, visit FirehouseSubsFoundation.org.