Restaurant-affiliated nonprofit donates $33K in hoses to Calif. city FD

Martin Estacio
Daily Press, Victorville, Calif.

VICTORVILLE, Calif. — More than $33,000 in new fire hoses was donated to the Victorville Fire Department, city officials announced earlier this week.

The Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation, a nonprofit created by the founders of the restaurant chain of the same name, awarded the donation.

Victorville Mayor Gloria Garcia said the city, and its fire department, were grateful for the donation that's expected to replace older hoses on front-line engines, according to a statement released Thursday, Jan. 2.

"This donation of valuable safety equipment will be of great benefit to our Victorville residents and visitors," Garcia said.

The donation comes as the city-run department works to replace broken and aging equipment. Victorville Fire was reestablished in March after 10 years of contracting services with the San Bernardino County Fire Department.

A report received by the City Council in June highlighted issues with the equipment returned from the county after the transition.

According to the report, "the majority of the current hose inventory (would) need to be replaced as budget funding allows."

At the time, County Fire spokesperson Tracey Martinez said the agency would examine the report and follow up with the city on any issues that needed to be addressed.

In September, Victorville Fire received an Assistance to Firefighters Grant for more than $310,000 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

City staff said the money would be used to purchase thermal imaging cameras, air fill stations for firefighters' breathing apparatuses and other necessary tools.

About $49,000 of the grant also went toward new fire hoses.

Since 2005, the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation has granted more than $46 million to provide equipment, training and support to first responders, according to its website.

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©2020 Daily Press, Victorville, Calif.