Florissant Fire Rescue held an open house on April 11 and over 100 people took part in all the free activities including a spaghetti dinner and an Easter egg hunt.

On hand there were volunteers of the fire department to show what equipment they have, what they do and even perform a few demonstrations. Inside the bays were several booths set up including mitigation information, backpacks full of supplies needed for first aid and survival packs, other valuable information, and a chance for members of the board to answer questions and explain the Florissant First project and why they are looking for a mill levy increase. They pointed out the need to replace older vehicles, make the bays larger for housing modern equipment, and various necessities to enhance the ability of the department to serve their growing community.

“From what I heard, they aren’t being frivolous, they are making sense and wanting to improve the services they provide,” said attendee Darice Zimmermann. “I know raising taxes is not popular, but its really not that much and will greatly benefit the community in the long run.”

The Fire Corp served up a hearty spaghetti dinner and the children eagerly awaited the Easter egg hunt. The children were unleashed in a field containing over 1,000 Easter eggs and squealed with delight at all they found. Special golden eggs were hidden as well and the ones that found those eggs were awarded with huge Easter baskets.

Not only did the fire personnel show off their trucks and other vehicles, but they also had on display a very special chair. The Susko family realized how many lift assist calls the department receives and purchased and donated a Striker Stair Chair to assist them in this endeavor.

“This is a huge asset to our department,” Chief John Buchan said. “It helps us and frees up the ambulance. We offer free lift service even to those just needing help getting out of their house and to their vehicle for a doctor’s appointment.

“We are so blessed in this community with generosity and we want to provide the best services to the tax payers.”

Participants left better informed, well fed and the children had plenty of Easter goodies. And even the rain held off until it was over.