AVOCA — Steadying himself on a metal track, 5-year-old Jacob Capone grabbed hold of a side railing as he pulled himself into a giant yellow bulldozer. Once inside, he happily looked around at all the levers and buttons, grabbing the large lever in front of him while acting as the machine’s operator.
The bulldozer was just one of dozens of emergency and heavy machinery vehicles available for tots to explore during the second annual “Touch a Truck” event held Saturday by the Avoca Fire Department.
Sirens blared, horns honked and smiles widened as toddler-aged children adventured through fire department grounds. The day featured a variety of vehicles from the borough and surrounding areas, including the Pittston Fire Safety House and equipment from the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport. Multiple food vendors and a bounce house were also available for family entertainment.
While watching Capone explore the bulldozer, his mother, Jenna Lasher, noted: “My son loves trucks more than anything in the world.”
Fire department president Tom Matthews said the event was created not only as a fundraiser, but as a way to interact with the community and civic groups. Many organizations, such as the Lions Club, are invited to set up their own stands.
“It’s something that the families can come up to, and can share it with the nonprofits,” he said.
Matthews said the groups are able to keep their profits for their own events.
All other proceeds — including the $5 admission fee — go to the fire department for general expenses, maintenance and training.
Sitting at a table next to the bounce house, Adella Decker watched as her 5-year-old son, Derek, enjoyed a cup of ice cream. The Avoca resident said she attended the fundraiser last year, and decided to bring along more family members for this year’s event.
“It’s just about supporting the community,” she said as Derek adjusted his yellow construction hat.
Meanwhile, inside the Avoca Ambulance, EMT Carrie Maccollum talked to a family about what an ambulance does and why it’s so important.
Fire Police Capt. Gary Halagarda said when the department was looking to create a fundraiser, it wanted something different than what could usually be found locally. They finally agreed on “Touch a Truck,” and it’s proved popular so far.
The department didn’t yet have an estimate on Saturday’s attendance, but said about 700 attended last year.
