Temple Terrace Fire Department Responds To Birthday Celebrations

TEMPLE TERRACE, FL — The City of Temple Terrace Fire Department routinely responds to calls involving fires and other emergencies. But on Saturday, the city’s firefighters helped out a local family with another urgent situation – the celebration of 10-year-old Jaleah’s birthday.

Efforts to prevent the spread of the coronavirus have put children’s birthday parties on hold. Recognizing the disappointment that kids are feeling by missing out on this important milestone, the Temple Terrace Fire Department is offering to help bring a smile to the face of a birthday boy or girl.

“As our community works together through these trying times, we have learned that social distancing can be challenging for all of us, especially our youngest members,” said Fire Chief Ina Kemp. “Our children’s lives have completely changed as they know it. We would like to offer our assistance to those children unable to celebrate their birthday with their friends and loved ones as they have done in previous times.”

The fire department is accepting appointments to bring their fire truck to the homes of children 18 and younger who are celebrating a birthday in April. The visit includes lights, sirens and even the "Happy Birthday" song, sung by the firefighters.

Arrangements can be made by contacting Division Chief Scott Murley at smurley@templeterrace.com.

Note that fire department personnel and apparatus are subject to emergency calls and may not be able to make it to every request.