Downers Grove Rounds Out Fire Prevention Week With "Silent Parade" To Remember Fire Victims

The Downers Grove Fire Department is rounding off Fire Prevention Week with two more events in coming days: a “Night at the Firehouse” for families Wednesday, and a closing Silent Parade on Friday to remember all those who have been lost in fire incidents.

Activities planned for Wednesday are on the lighter end — kids will be able to slide down real fire poles, see rescue demonstrations and learn what firefighters wear, as well as hear presentations about fire safety, injury prevention, burn prevention and emergency preparedness.

The Silent Parade, however, is a 22-year-old tradition dedicated to both firefighters and civilians who have lost their lives in fires.

“Most fire departments celebrate Fire Prevention Week with fun-filled, action-packed open houses and other events,” Marsha Giesler, assistant to the fire chief at the Downers Grove Fire Department, said, explaining that those events began years ago as ways to celebrate the rebuilding of Chicago after the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. “The Silent Parade in our area is always scheduled as a way to close out Fire Prevention Week with a somber reminder that firefighters and civilians continue to lose their lives to fires. We honor all victims and strive to keep their memories alive.”

Giesler, who’s been with the Department 25 years, also calls the Silent Parade “one of the most unique and touching events that brings our communities together.” She said people hold big thank-you signs, flashlights and American flags, and that boy scouts and neighborhood groups alike make it a special event annually.

The event starts in Hinsdale around 7 p.m. Friday before moving west along Maple Ave. through Clarendon Hills, Westmont, Downers Grove and Lisle. Downers Grove is a popular spot, Giesler said, especially at the corner of Main St. and Maple Ave., where a large American flag hangs suspended over the intersection. The parade is expected to pass through Downers Grove around 7:15 p.m.

The Silent Parade is one of the largest of its type in the state and traditionally features fire service vehicles from more than 25 surrounding communities. Lights will be displayed, but sirens will be kept silent in commemoration of victims.

“All of our members have seen the devastation fire has caused for homeowners and the hardships they incurred as a result of those fires,” Giesler said of the Downers Grove department. “Our departments are passionate about educating the public about the unpredictability of fire and ways to keep their families safe so they do not have to endure the pain we have witnessed from these victims.”