Tuesday, June 20, 2017 11:01 am

J.D. Underhill, left, and Tim Bell, right, both from the Cannon County Rescue Squad received extrication equipment worth $9,961 during a special event at Firehouse Subs restaurant in Murfreesboro. Making the presentation were Laura and Mark Watson.

Murfreesboro - Cannon County Rescue Squad received extrication equipment worth $9,961 during a presentation from Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation.

The awarded equipment will improve the departments rescue capabilities for victims in motor vehicle accidents. The department expects the new tools to reduce extrication time by as much as 20 percent.

Similar presentations were made to the Almaville Volunteer Fire and Rescue and the Coffee County Rescue Squad. A total of $35,380 worth of life-saving equipment grants were awarded at Firehouse Subs restaurant, 2018 Medical Center Parkway, Murfreesboro.

Attendees included local first responders, Firehouse Subs Area Representative Bob Conochalla and Firehouse Subs Franchisees Mark and Laura Watson.

In 2005, Firehouse Subs founders established the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation with the mission of providing funding, life-saving equipment, and educational opportunities to first-responders and public safety organizations. Through the non-profit foundation, more than $25 million to hometown heroes in 46 states, Puerto Rico and Canada, including more than $1.3 million in Tennessee.

In addition to the Cannon County donation, Almaville Volunteer Fire and Rescue (AVFRD) received four strut packages valued at $12,202. The awarded equipment will be used to stabilize vehicles after motor vehicle accidents, allowing first responders to safely extricate victims and provide life-saving assistance quickly. According to an AVFRD representative, the department responds to an average of 45 car accidents per month.

Coffee County Rescue Squad received turnout gear valued at $13,217. The awarded gear will replace old, damaged gear.