Parents and their children visited Dr. John’s Playground at Avenue X and Gerritsen Avenue on Sunday, June 21st, to see the Gerritsen Beach Fire Department’s (GBFD) ambulance and check out its newest drone at a fun and informative event called “Just for Kids: Inside an Ambulance.”
Organized by the Marine Park Alliance (MPA), the GBFD hosts the annual event, traditionally falling on Father’s Day, where GBFD volunteers, also known as the Vollies, provide an inside tour of one of its vehicles, such as a fire truck or, in this year’s case, an ambulance.
Families explored the ambulance, got to see its inner workings and the tools the volunteers use, learn what the volunteers do and what to do when someone is injured.
“Learning about an ambulance makes people more comfortable in case of an emergency – to know an ambulance’s proficiencies, from vitals and treatments to transport,” Captain Anthony Baisden said. “Especially for the little ones; it makes them feel a little bit more comfortable, and it allows us to approach them at a more professional level.”
Just a few feet away, Chief Daniel Cavanagh demonstrated the department’s newest drone, the Skydio X10, showcasing its six navigation cameras, 5G connectivity and thermal vision.
“Our drone program is important to the department and the city, because it allows us to get situational awareness much quicker,” Cavanagh said. “We can see what’s going on, see where we’re needed.”
“This is a great annual tradition that MPA does with the GBFD,” MPA Executive Director Scott Middleton said. “It’s a great opportunity for the community to learn some first-aid tips, and they can be prepared when an emergency arises. And it’s important that people learn that the Vollies are members of the community as well and that they’re people who are out here caring for others. They deserve our respect, admiration and gratitude for all they do to keep us safe.”
