This Halloween season, Garden City Fire Company invites families to trade candy bags for gear and discover what it’s like to be a firefighter. The annual Fire Safety and Truck or Treat Night will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, October 29 at the firehouse, 412 Moore Road, Wallingford.
The free community event combines festive Halloween fun with lifesaving fire prevention. Guests of all ages can tour the fire station and trucks, try on real firefighting gear, meet Sparky the Fire Safety Dog and collect sweet treats along the way.
The evening also offers a unique opportunity for prospective volunteers to learn what it’s like to serve as a Garden City firefighter, including available roles, training, benefits of joining and time commitments.
“The open house gives us the chance to both educate families on fire safety and show prospective volunteers that our company is made up entirely of community members,” said Garden City Fire Chief Pat O’Rourke. “We’re here to answer questions and provide a firsthand look at the rewards of becoming a volunteer firefighter.”
This year’s event will highlight the National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) 2025 Fire Prevention Week (FPW) theme, “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” The campaign educates families on how to buy, charge and recycle safely when it comes to lithium-ion batteries, which power everyday devices from phones and laptops to e-bikes and scooters.
- Buy only listed products. Look for a safety certification mark such as UL, ETL or CSA to ensure the battery meets safety standards.
- Charge devices safely. Always use manufacturer-approved cords and chargers, avoid overcharging and charge on a hard surface.
- Recycle responsibly. Never throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins. Instead, take them to a safe battery recycling location. Visit call2recycle.org to find a nearby site.
According to NFPA, unsafe use of lithium-ion batteries has caused a growing number of home fires. Following these three steps can help families stay safe.
Garden City Fire Company responds to more than 500 calls annually across Nether Providence Township, Rose Valley and nearby communities. The fire company continues to seek new members who are passionate about helping others. No prior experience is required, and training and gear are provided at no cost.
To learn more or to submit a volunteer inquiry form, visit www.GardenCityFirefighter.org
