Plover’s drive-thru fire parade a hit, firefighters say

By Brandi Makuski

PLOVER – The Plover Fire Department opted for a drive-through event this year, offering a fresh approach to engage the community and educate children on fire safety.

The PFD forewent its usual open house during the COVID-19 panic, holding instead its first drive-through “parade” in 2020 that was such a success the department saw fit to repeat it this year.

“People seemed really excited for that back then,” said Bobby Sullivan, a member of the Plover Fire Department. “It was a chance to get out of the house and kind of be social safely.”

This year’s event was held on the evening of Oct. 10 in the rear parking lot of St. Bronislava Church and School.

Fire Chief Mark Deaver explained that organizing the department’s open house was a tremendous amount of work. He and others in the department felt like a change was due.

The department has been active all week in four local schools—St. Bronislava, Roosevelt, McDill, and Plover-Whiting—celebrating Fire Prevention Week with students from 4K through sixth grade. Deaver said that the drive-through event builds on the excitement generated during the school visits.

“Kids have said they saw us in school, and this adds another element of excitement for them,” Deaver said. “With how busy families are, this also gives parents a quick, fun way to engage with us.”

Deaver said nearly 20 department members helped with the event, ensuring a smooth experience for those attending.

“We might do it again next year,” he said.