The Middlesex Hose Company is turning a recent act of vandalism into an opportunity for community engagement.
In a social media post, the department announced that it will open its doors to local children tonight at 7 following an incident last week in which eggs were thrown at several vehicles, including a fire truck that was being used during a training exercise.
Rather than focusing on punishment, firefighters are inviting children from the community to help wash the department’s trucks and spend time at the firehouse.
Department officials said the event is open to all local children, whether they were involved in the incident, know someone who was, or simply want to lend a hand.
Firefighters will provide drinks and treats, and children who attend will have an opportunity to take rides in the fire trucks at the end of the evening.
The department said the goal is not to assign blame, but to build relationships with local youth and reinforce that the firehouse is a welcoming place for members of the community.
According to the post, Middlesex firefighters believe that giving children a chance to spend time around the firehouse, learn about the equipment, and get to know local firefighters is a positive way to strengthen community connections.
The event will take place at the Middlesex Hose Company firehouse beginning at 7 p.m.
