By Ken Francis, Staff Writer

 

The Clearwater Fire Dept. made a big impact on some kids Wednesday evening.

 

    It was their first open house set up specifically for kids from Big Brothers  Big Sisters from St. Cloud, and there were lots of fun learning activities.

 

    About 20-25 kids from Central Minnesota, along with their big brothers, big sisters and a few parents, attended  the event.

 

    Clearwater Fire Chief Ryan Pridgeon said members of the department spent time building an “obstacle course” that resembled what firefighters might have to make their way through in a home during a fire. It was like a maze with ropes and other obstacles the kids had to navigate.

 

    Kids also had a chance to ride in a fire truck, use a fire hose to hit a target, use fire extinguishers to put out a propane fire and observe the department in action putting out a car fire.

 

    There were also hot dogs and other treats for the kids.

 

    Firefighter Josh Lawson, whose fiance´ used to be involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters as a big sister to a  a young girl, helped arrange the open house.

    “I’ve always wanted to get involved but never felt I had the time to commit to a single individual,” he said.

 

“But I can commit to an event that will impact a lot of kids at once. So it’s something I wanted to do. I know it’s a very valuable organization and hopefully we can make a couple of future firefighters.”

 

    Mary Bechtold, activity planner for Big Brothers Big Sisters, said they try to set up at least one event per month. The organization has done similar events with the Sartell Fire Dept., but never with Clearwater.

 

    “Tonight they’re learning about fire safety. They’re going to have an opportunity to learn about fires, rescue and see them in action,” she said.

 

    Although Wednesday’s activity was a learning experience, many of their events are just plain fun.

 

    In addition to a career night, they’ve gone ice fishing, regular fishing and to AirMaxx Trampoline indoor park in St. Cloud.

 

    “We’re going to Summerland (water park), to a Twins game in July and we’ll spend an evening at a St. Cloud Rox game,” said Bechtold. “We’ve reserved the first base club deck area  so they’ll have food and drinks there.”

 

    Bechtold said they’re always looking for new activities for kids. Anyone who has an idea for an event can contact Big Brothers Big Sisters in St. Cloud at 320-253-1616.