In a remarkable act of community support, Fry’s Food Stores has donated $3,000 in gift cards to the Phoenix Fire Department to aid in their fight against heat-related illnesses. This contribution will significantly bolster the department’s efforts to treat patients suffering from extreme heat during the sweltering Arizona summer.
The donation announcement took place on Friday, July 12, at Fry’s Food Stores located at 2626 S. 83rd Ave., Phoenix, AZ. The event was graced by the presence of District 7 Councilman Carlos Galindo-Elvira, representatives from the Phoenix Fire Department, and Fry’s Food Stores’ representative, Pam Giannonatti.
Addressing a Critical Need
Phoenix firefighters employ a fast-cooling method for patients whose body temperatures exceed 104 degrees and who exhibit signs of altered mental status. This method involves immersing the patient in a cooling bag filled with ice. Firefighter-paramedics continuously monitor the patient’s vital signs, including their temperature, and remove them from the bag once it drops to 101 degrees. This approach has proven effective in treating severe heat-related conditions like heat stroke and exhaustion.
In the past, the Phoenix Fire Department has struggled to maintain an adequate ice supply during peak summer months due to high demand. This is where Fry’s Food Stores stepped in with their timely donation. The $3,000 gift cards, distributed as $50 gift cards to each of the city’s 60 fire stations, will ensure that firefighters have the necessary resources to carry out this life-saving cooling method.
Community Partnership
“Partnerships like these are essential in Phoenix during the summer months,” said Councilman Carlos Galindo-Elvira. “The fast-cooling method is used multiple times a day to battle heat illness and emergencies. This donation will greatly assist our fire department in purchasing ice throughout the summer, which has proven to be a crucial component in their life-saving efforts.”
Phoenix Fire Chief Mike Duran echoed these sentiments, expressing gratitude for the support from Fry’s Food Stores and the councilman. “With Councilman Carlos Galindo-Elvira’s support and the donation from Fry’s Food Stores, this bolsters the Phoenix Fire Department’s efforts in responding to emergencies, ensuring that firefighters and paramedics have the resources they need to perform their life-saving duties effectively.”
Community Support
Monica Garnes, president of Fry’s Food Stores, emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting local communities. “Fry’s is always focused on supporting the communities where we live and work,” she said. “We are proud to partner with the Phoenix Fire Department to help save the lives of Arizonans. We’re grateful to Councilman Galindo-Elvira and Phoenix Firefighters for all they do to keep our community safe, especially during these hot summer months.”
A Lifeline in the Heat
The donation from Fry’s Food Stores arrives at a crucial time as Phoenix continues to endure extreme heat. This partnership highlights the importance of community collaboration in addressing public health challenges, ensuring that the Phoenix Fire Department is well-equipped to handle the heat-related emergencies that arise during the intense Arizona summer.
