Mt. Prospect collecting toys through Dec. 7

The Mount Prospect Fire, Police and Human Services departments are again conducting their annual Christmas Toys for Kids program.

New, unwrapped toys will be accepted at any Mount Prospect Fire Station through Dec. 7. Fire stations are at 112 E. Northwest Hwy., 1601 W. Golf Road or 2000 E. Kensington Road.

Gift certificates to local merchants will also be accepted. However, cash donations cannot be accepted.

On Dec. 10, Santa Claus and his elves will deliver presents to more than 100 underprivileged families in Mount Prospect.

This year, members of the Mount Prospect Fire Department will also check the smoke detectors in each home, and correct any problems with smoke detectors at no cost to the family — including installing new smoke detectors if none are present.

The Mount Prospect paid on call firefighters provided the funding to make this smoke detector program possible.

“A smoke detector cannot protect you if it is not in proper working order,” said Fire Chief John Malcolm. “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.”

Residents who cannot afford a smoke detector, or have physical limitations that would hinder them from installing or maintaining their smoke detector, should call the Mount Prospect Fire Prevention Bureau for assistance at (847) 818-5253.