By David Vitrano
L’Observateur

By David Vitrano

L’Observateur

LAPLACE – A parking lot full of fire engines was a familiar site on this particular stretch of Airline Highway this week, but on Wednesday their presence fortunately did not signal some sort of emergency.

Instead, the combination of 31-cent scoops of ice cream and a parking lot full of the bright red vehicles seemed the perfect draw for scores of area children as they explored the fire fighting apparati while consuming their icy treats.

Fire officials such as LaPlace Fire Chief John Snyder and Assistant Fire Chief Robert Bourgeois were also on-hand at the Baskin-Robbins on Airline in LaPlace to provide the children with a little education about fire fighting and fire safety.

The evening’s activities also included various demonstrations of interest to children of all ages.

The LaPlace Volunteer Fire Department got to show off the newest addition to its fleet as well. Although the truck has yet to see action — drivers are still being trained on the vehicle — the department hopes to have it ready for action as early as next week.

The real cause of the day, however, was to raise money for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. It was hoped parents might donate the money they saved on ice cream to the cause.

“The goal of this event is multi-faceted,” said Snyder. “We want to raise money for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. We are eager for children to meet fire fighters and learn about fire safety. We would like the community to have an opportunity to learn details of what the department does and have a chance to volunteer themselves and have fun.”