Washington—The Trucking Cares Foundation, the trucking industry’s charitable arm, donated $13,380 to the North Bangor Fire Co. in Bangor, PA, to support the department’s acquisition of an airbag extrication kit.

“First responders are the trucking industry’s partners, helping to keep all drivers on our highways safe and providing lifesaving assistance in emergency situations,” said TCF Chairman Greg Owen, head coach of Ability Tri-Modal.  “Whenever drivers are traveling through eastern Pennsylvania, they can be at ease knowing that the brave men and women of the North Bangor Fire Co. are just one phone call away.  The Trucking Cares Foundation is proud to support the department’s effort to purchase an airbag extrication kit that will enhance their rescue capabilities.  If there is any industry that appreciates the importance of special equipment, it is the trucking industry.”

“The North Bangor Fire Company is honored and deeply grateful to receive this generous $13,380 donation from the Trucking Cares Foundation to support our acquisition of a heavy-lift airbag extrication kit. As our community continues to grow and as vehicles—especially commercial trucks—become larger and more complex, this specialized equipment will significantly enhance our ability to perform technical rescues and improve patient outcomes," said Fire Captain Thomas Austin, North Bangor Fire Co.  "First responders and the trucking industry share a vital partnership in keeping our highways safe, and this donation strengthens that bond. Truck drivers are the backbone of America, and with this support, we’re better equipped to give back to them and to all motorists who depend on us in their most critical moments.”

North Bangor Fire Co. is a volunteer-based emergency service that serves the residents of Upper Mount Bethel Township and the surrounding communities in Northampton County, Pennsylvania.  From its origins in a predominantly agricultural region, the fire company has evolved to meet the challenges of a growing and increasingly complex community. With the region's rapid development and proximity to critical infrastructure, the company has continually expanded its operational capabilities, training, and resources to effectively serve both residents and the broader public.

TCF’s donation will support the North Bangor Fire Co.’s purchase of a heavy lift airbag extrication kit.  This device will assist first responders in emergency incidents requiring technical rescue.  Deflated bags are placed under an object, like a vehicle, and slowly inflated to create space for the removal of a trapped individual.  Enhanced rescue capabilities are directly correlated with improved patient outcomes.