Extrication Demonstration Took Place at Morristown Fire Station Three on September 2
MEDIA NOTE: Photos and Video from the NABC F.R.E.E.™ presentation are available HERE
PORT CHARLOTTE, FL (September 9, 2026) – The Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation recently awarded the United Volunteer Fire Department with extrication equipment valued at nearly $40,000 to help protect East Tennessee drivers. On Wednesday, September 2, the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation showcased that technology at the Morristown Fire Department, with support from the NABC F.R.E.E.™ program, Allstate and HURST Jaws of Life.
Invited guests had the opportunity to learn advanced rescue techniques for late-model vehicles. In addition to the extrication demonstration, attendees received a fire station tour, explored a fire truck and had dinner provided by Firehouse Subs. In partnership with the University of Tennessee, Smokey, the beloved Bluetick Coonhound mascot, brushed up on his lifesaving skills as well.
Invited guests had the opportunity to learn advanced rescue techniques for late-model vehicles. In addition to the extrication demonstration, attendees received a fire station tour, explored a fire truck and had dinner provided by Firehouse Subs. In partnership with the University of Tennessee, Smokey, the beloved Bluetick Coonhound mascot, brushed up on his lifesaving skills as well.
“Up-to-date extrication equipment makes a critical difference when firefighters are working to free someone from a vehicle, and we’re proud to support United Volunteer Fire Department with the tools they need to respond when every second matters,” said Meghan Vargas, Director of Development, Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation. “By inviting influencers to experience the equipment firsthand, we were able to give them a deeper understanding of the lifesaving work of first responders – and help share that story with their communities.”
The NABC F.R.E.E.™ program (First Responder Emergency Extrication) is a National Auto Body Council® initiative providing free, hands-on training for first responders to practice extricating victims from modern vehicles. It focuses on navigating high-strength steel, advanced airbags, and electric vehicle technology, often using salvaged vehicles.
Those in the community can support this life-saving NABC F.R.E.E. training in two ways – donate to the program directly or donate their unwanted or non-running vehicle through the Changing and Saving Lives Keys for Change program. They will receive a tax donation for their contribution, and proceeds will help train additional first responders across the country – and in their community.
About the National Auto Body Council®
The National Auto Body Council® is the premier organization of collision industry partners dedicated to strategic networking opportunities that positively change lives in the communities we serve. The collaborative membership of the National Auto Body Council® has gifted more than 3,850 vehicles valued at nearly $69 million and provided extrication opportunities for some 7,000 First Responders in communities around the country through NABC Recycled Rides® and NABC First Responder Emergency Extrication (F.R.E.E.™).
The NABC Changing and Saving Lives Foundation, a 501c3 organization, is committed to the goal of driving change for veterans, military members, first responders and families in need, while harnessing the power of the collective membership of the collision repair industry to positively impact communities where we live and work. As demand for NABC® programs like NABC Recycled Rides® and NABC F.R.E.E.™ grows, so do the needs for resources to manage these important programs. Being able to pursue grants, gifts and donations allows NABC® to expand these programs to serve those in need and help communities where we live and work.
The Changing and Saving Lives Foundation Keys for Change program also helps drive funding for key programs. The easy, efficient donation process allows vehicle owners to turn their unwanted vehicles into life-changing support. All vehicle donations fund critical programs that provide support and assistance for families in need, military members, veterans and first responders.
For more information, visit http://www.nationalautobodycouncil.org/ .
About Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation®
Established in 2005 by the founders of Firehouse Subs®, the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation® is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing lifesaving equipment, prevention education, scholarships and continued education, and disaster relief to first responders and public safety organizations, as well as support for military veterans.
Since its inception, the Foundation has awarded more than $109 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 Foundation holds a four-star rating from Charity Navigator, the organization’s highest designation. More than 70% of funds raised come directly from the generosity of Firehouse Subs guests and the restaurant brand.