Mount Prospect Toys for Kids - Donations accepted through Dec. 7
The Mount Prospect Fire, Police and Human Services Departments are once again conducting their annual Christmas Toys for Kids program. Only NEW, UNWRAPPED toys will be accepted at any Mount Prospect Fire Station through December 7. Fire Stations are located at: 112 E. Northwest Highway, 1601 W. Golf Road or 2000 E. Kensington Road in Mount Prospect.
Gift certificates to local merchants will also be accepted. However, we cannot accept cash donations.
On Saturday, December 10, Santa Claus, along with his helpful elves, will deliver presents to over 100 underprivileged families throughout Mount Prospect. This year, members of the Mount Prospect Fire Department will also check the smoke detectors in each home to ensure they are in proper working order. Members will correct any problems with smoke detectors at no cost to the family. This includes installing new smoke detectors if none are present in the home. The Mount Prospect Paid on Call Firefighters provided the funding to make this smoke detector program possible.
Chief Malcolm states, “A smoke detector cannot protect you if it is not in proper working order. This program will allow the fire department to not only deliver toys to underprivileged families, but will also ensure these families have working smoke detectors. Working smoke detectors are proven to save lives and are one of the most important components of any family's safety, along with a home fire safety plan. I would like to remind everyone to check their smoke detectors during this holiday season.”
In the United States more than 3,000 people die in home fires each year; most of whom are in homes without working smoke detectors. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates that more than 94 percent of North American homes have at least one smoke detector. However, the number of homes with smoke detectors that do not work is greater than the number of homes without any detectors.
Residents who cannot afford a smoke detector, or have physical limitations that would hinder them from installing or maintaining their smoke detector, should contact the Mount Prospect Fire Prevention Bureau for assistance at (847) 818-5253.