Firehouse Subs honours Goderich Fire and First Responders with family-friendly event

Goderich Fire Department parked its ladder truck outside Firehouse Subs in celebration of First Responders Month.

West Street in Goderich buzzed with excitement on the afternoon of October 5 as the Goderich Fire Department parked its ladder truck outside Firehouse Subs, creating a striking scene with the historic courthouse as its backdrop.

The event, held in celebration of First Responders Month, was a family-friendly tribute to the heroes who keep our communities safe.

Children of all ages were invited to climb aboard the fire truck, meet local firefighters, and take home a bundle of goodies — including crayons, colouring books, fire hats, and toy fire trucks.

The atmosphere was joyful and welcoming, with kids wide-eyed at the chance to explore real emergency equipment up close while parents helped them to climb the step stool up into the driver’s seat.

Fire Chief Jeff Wormington was also on hand sharing words of wisdom with those who stopped by. Last week, October 5-11 marked Fire Prevention Week.

He wanted to emphasize the Charge for life lithium battery safety which is this year’s national focus.

“Obviously test your smoke alarms and Carbon Monoxide detectors,” he added.

The lithium-ion battery safety emphasizes the importance of responsible purchasing, charging, and disposal of lithium-ion batteries.

The advice from the campaign this year is to buy only listed products and be cautious with off-brand or online items. Charge devices on hard surfaces, avoid overcharging, and never throw batteries in the garbage. Recycling is safer — and the materials can be reused.

The event was hosted by Firehouse Subs, whose commitment to public safety goes far beyond sandwiches.

Swet Gandhi, the owner of the Goderich location, spoke about the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation of Canada — a registered charity dedicated to improving the lifesaving capabilities of first responders across the country and the day’s event was about more than just community outreach — it was a chance to say thank you.

Founded by firefighters, the Foundation provides grants for essential equipment such as thermal imaging cameras, AEDs, radios, and vehicle extrication tools.

Since its launch in Canada in 2015, the Foundation has granted more than $5.1 million to nearly 400 public safety organizations.

Donations are accepted year-round in-store, online, and through the Firehouse Subs app, with October marking a special push during First Responders Month. There are days throughout the year when all money goes to the Public Safety Foundation.

Swet went on to explain that first responder organizations submit applications for funds which are assessed based on the importance of the equipment and how many people can be saved.

Having experienced the devastation of fire only a few days earlier, the timing of this article — chosen before that fire — now feels especially poignant. Fire safety isn’t just a seasonal reminder; it’s a daily reality that can change lives in an instant.

But the giggles from the driver’s seat by kids proudly wearing their new fire hats, the day served as a reminder of the power of gratitude — and the importance of supporting those who serve.