Palatine Rural firefighters invite community to visit

The Palatine Rural Fire Protection District is about to make itself extremely visible to the residents it serves.

On Saturday, Sept. 12, firefighters will host not just an open house, but an American Red Cross blood drive and food drive for the Palatine Township Food Pantry.

So bring your nonperishable items to the station at Ela and Palatine roads in Inverness, roll up your sleeves and take part in festivities aimed at promoting fire safety and awareness.

"We wanted to do something both fun and charitable for the community," firefighter/paramedic Amy Jo Walter said.

In addition to a live fire demonstration showing the effectiveness of sprinklers, attendees can learn how to properly use a fire extinguisher and visit booths manned by representatives from area hospitals, the fire corps, Nicor, the railroad and the Inverness Police Department.

Kids will work on wood projects set up by Home Depot, admire the equipment on display and play with mascot Sparky the Firedog.

And barring any calls for service, Flight for Life will touch down.

A live band will perform, while the Inverness Foundation will provide food and a raffle.

Shuttles will be provided to the fire station from Holiday Family Catholic Church, located about a half-mile east on Palatine Road.