Fire Department Volunteers Make Christmas Bright for Local Children

SEA ISLE CITY – Sometimes they put out fires, other times they respond to calls simply because there “might be a fire.” But on Dec. 15, firemen from Sea Isle City’s Volunteer Fire Department (SICVFD) fanned the flames of holiday-cheer during their annual Christmas celebration for local children. The free event, which welcomed all youngsters who were interested in meeting Santa Claus and receiving early Christmas gifts, has been a SICVFD tradition for decades.
The evening began when Santa Claus boarded a fire engine, which was towing a brightly-lit Christmas float filled with colorful decorations. To announce his arrival in Sea Isle City, Santa and his fire-fighting friends then drove through town with sirens blaring, waving to residents along the way. Later, Santa was delivered to the SICVFD’s headquarters on JFK Boulevard, where scores of children were anxiously awaiting his arrival. Once inside the fire house, which was fully decorated with festive Christmas trim, the youngsters quickly lined-up to meet the jolly old elf and talk about the items on their Christmas wish-lists. Afterwards, the kids received ice-cream and other treats before being permitted to climb onboard the company’s fire engines.
According to firefighter Jason Steelman, one of the organizers of the event, the SICVFD’s yearly Christmas celebration has been taking place for more than a half-century.
“The children all loved meeting Santa and he was very happy to see them too,” said Steelman. “Each child received a toy and other treats, and they also enjoyed climbing onboard the fire trucks and trying on our gear. Over 100 children attended this year, and everyone had fun – including the fire fighters. I would like to thank Fred Pane and all of the firemen who keep this wonderful tradition going.”
After the public gathering came to an end, the fun was just beginning for the firemen and their families, who were then treated to a private Christmas party inside the fire department’s conference room, where the firefighter’s children and grandchildren each received gifts and treats from Santa.
For additional information about the Sea Isle City Volunteer Fire Department or to learn how you can join their organization, phone (609) 263-9111.