Sparky the Fire Dog - a three-generation tradition

For many years "Sparky, the Fire Dog" has helped to promote fire safety through fire departments all over the country.

For the Lechner family, it all started over 30 years ago when fireman, George Lechner, of the Des Plaines Fire Department, donned a Sparky "head" and marched with the department in a 4th of July parade. His then 4-year- old granddaughter, Stephanie, was confused and bewildered by "the dog" when she was told it was "Grandpa."

When George's daughter, Dawn Andrlik, joined the Palatine Rural Fire Protection District years later, as the Administrative Assistant, the tradition continued when she put on the entire outfit of Sparky. At their annual "open house" in September, the kids loved Sparky. The same scenario happened when Dawn's daughter, Payton, was told that "the dog" was "Mommy." But that would change!

On September 12, 2015, a 3rd generation Sparky was "born." Dawn's daughter, Payton, agreed to be Sparky.

Again the kids loved her and she enjoyed doing it. The tradition was continued this year. This family truly is a "fire department" family.