Young 'Recruits' Experience Life As Oswego Firefighters

OSWEGO, IL — On Aug. 10, the Oswego Fire Protection District held its first ever lock-in. This ground-breaking event let kids stay overnight at the fire station. The “recruits” (as they were referred to) were met with a night filled with activities, food and a movie. Best of all, they got to respond (front parking lot) when the alarm sounded for calls.

The young recruits were awakened twice with the sound of the alarm in the middle of the night to respond for calls. This challenge was an eye opener for the recruits. This action-packed overnight gave kids and adults a glimpse into the world of a firefighter. One dad stated this was an experience his kids will never forget and wished he could have experienced this when he was a kid.

“Sparky” the fire dog stopped by and visited with the recruits. There was a surprise visit from Life Star helicopter. They landed right at the fire station, giving everyone a front row seat. Once on the ground the recruits and the adults were able to tour the helicopter.

The event was dedicated to exposing school-aged children to life at the fire station. The fundraiser was designed to be fun, entertaining, and educational, while also providing them with knowledge of the fire service.

As of today, the Lock-In raised $2,000 with all the money raised going to the burn camp, “Camp I Am Me."

The Oswego Fire Protection District would like to thank Domino’s Pizza for dinner, Sam’s Club for breakfast, Imagination Print & Design for the help with the T-shirts, Traci Kearns of EXP Realty for the backpacks used for the goody bags, Sparky the fire dog and Life Star helicopter.

Photos and article submitted by the Oswego Fire Protection District