Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation will donate a new Polaris 6×6 Ranger UTV with a Kimtek skid unit, a forestry pump and new trailer to the department. The package is valued at valued at $26,700.
“This unit will greatly improve the Sanford Fire Department’s capability to fight forest and grass fires far from the road,” said Sanford Fire Marshal Patrick Cotter.
He said the unit holds 85 gallons of water in an onboard tank, and can pump up to 120 gallon of water a minute. Cotter said the skid unit can be used for patient transport over long distances that are inaccessible to ambulances.
“This greatly enhances Sanford Fire Department’s ability to operate off road and protect the City of Sanford and its’ citizens,” said Cotter. “The men and women of the Sanford Fire Department would like to thank Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation for their generous donation to this department.”
“The manager of the (Biddeford) store worked with us and was instrumental in us getting this award,” Fire Chief Steve Benotti told the City Council Tuesday night. “(They give) back not just to the communities they’re in, but surrounding communities.”
Owner/manager of the Biddeford location, Michael Koman, said his store threw its support behind the grant application to the Firehouse Subs Foundation. He said the award to Sanford is the second local grant — the first went to Biddeford Fire Department last fall for EMS training equipment.
Benotti said the new equipment will substantially upgrade the department’s capabilities.
The City Council unanimously accepted the award.
“They’re a great organization,” said Councilor Lucas Lanigan.
The nonprofit Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation has granted more than $29.5 million to fire departments in 46 states, Puerto Rico and Canada, including more than $170,000 in Maine.
— Senior Staff Writer Tammy Wells can be contacted at 324-4444 (local call in Sanford) or 282-1535, ext. 327 or twells@journaltribune.com.
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