Do you remember how after September 11th the country saw our first responders as heroes? Seriously, we couldn’t praise them enough because they were the ones running in when everyone else was running out. How things have changed in just 18 years.

Instead of recognizing our police, fire, EMTs and other first responders, as of late, many have lost sight of the incredibly good things these selfless individuals do for our communities and people have become quick to spew hate and point fingers.

My husband comes from a family of first responders and I have nothing but respect for the things they do to help and enhance the world around them. As a show of support for the men and women in our community who give so much of themselves, my husband and I make every effort to attend the yearly Vestal Fire Safety Expo. This year the event will be held on Saturday, October 5th.

The Vestal Fire Safety Expo is free to attend and will take place in the Vestal Lowes parking lot from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This is your opportunity to thank those who genuinely sacrifice so much to protect and serve the world around us and to educate your little ones.

In addition to first responders from the Vestal Fire Department, Vestal Police Department and several other departments, there will also be safety demonstrations, the Broome County Kids Safety Trailer Sparky the fire dog and much more.

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