By Traci Shurley
The Fort Worth Star-Telegram
PANTEGO, Texas — A handful of city residents got an unexpected visit from Pantego firefighters Sunday, but it wasn't trauma that brought out the emergency responders.
No, the hot cheesy pizzas they delivered were definitely more of a treat.
As part of a fire safety promotion, the department took over delivery duties for Tony's Italian Grill on Sunday to some randomly selected homes. The restaurant gave a free order to anyone whose home had working smoke detectors. Firefighters planned to give batteries or even a free smoke detector to residents whose home didn't pass the test.
"Thank you so much. What a nice thing!" said Gale Brunson, who got her Tony's supreme pizza for free.
She and husband Vernon greeted Pantego Fire Chief Tom Griffith and three of his firefighters at their front door about 4:30 p.m. They were surprised to see both a fire engine and ambulance pull into their cul-de-sac.
"I thought for a minute we might really have a fire," Gale Brunson said.
The idea for the giveaway came from fire Lt. Scott Mitchell, who heard about a similar promotion elsewhere. Griffith said the department hopes to team with other local businesses for events in the future.
The firefighters said they didn't mind if delivering pizzas Sunday evening kept them from watching the Super Bowl. After all, they're used to interruptions.
Copyright 2008 Fort Worth Star-Telegram
