Teddy Bear Clinic at the Firestation

Back in May, (yes I am still six months behind,) I took the kids to a Teddy Bear Clinic at one of our neighborhood fire stations. There are actually three fire stations in close proximity to our house, which you would think would be a good thing. But when one of our neighbors had a house fire this past winter, the dispatcher couldn’t figure out which fire station to dispatch... It took them over an extra half an hour to get here. Anyway, I digress...

The Teddy Bear Clinic is designed to give the kids a chance to get familiar with the firemen and paramedics before an emergency occurs. This was our second time to the fire station in a brief period, but Charlie didn’t care at all! This time he got to choose a stuffed animal to bring to be a patient for the paramedics. He chose to bring his friend Buttercup.

Charlie got to help one of the firefighters organize his equipment before doing a demonstration. Then all of the kids watched as he donned his full gear, piece by piece. Then, each kid had an opportunity to sit on his lap while he was in full gear. Charlie did it, but Lynnae was too scared! (The last time we had been there, it was the opposite... Charlie was hiding behind my leg. So I guess multiple visits is a good thing!)

After that, we went to the paramedic clinic where they treated Buttercup for a fall and concussion. Lynnae’s bear received a full leg splint. Then Lynnae and Charlie were able to climb up in the fire engine and play around. They also got to see one of the fire fighters climb up to the top of the fully-extended fire truck ladder. Then, they got to climb into the ambulance, where Charlie and Buttercup got strapped down to the gurney. (Lynnae was strapped down on a side bench.)

The kids also got to practice dialing 9-1-1, and enjoyed a cookie and lemonade. All in all, they had a lot of fun. We will definitely be doing this again!