Fire agencies grateful for public support

KENNEWICK, Wash.-- Many residents in the Tri-Cities recognize the hard-- and often dangerous work that first responders are involved in, and they look for ways to offer a "thank you".

But for now, bringing meals and treats to fire stations isn't a good idea.

"We have closed down the fire stations to the public to minimize those exposures," said Captain Brian Ellis, Deputy Fire Marshal for the Kennewick Fire Department. "As much as we really do feel grateful, we want to keep you safe. In addition, there are other needs in the community that if people have the passion and the interest, if they wanted to divert the food to them, those organizations could use it."

Local fire and police agencies are limiting general public access to fire stations and have cancelled public tours and events to minimize exposure to Covid-19,  to provide good examples of distancing as recommended by the CDC, WADOH, and BFHD. Kennewick Fire officials are asking the community to show their appreciation by donating of food, treats  and/or water to community and social service organizations that help those in need.

You can also leave notes of encouragement on the Fire Department's social media pages:
Kennewick Fire Department
Pasco Fire Department
Richland Fire Department
Benton County Fire District 1
Benton County Fire Protection District 2
Franklin County Fire District 3
Walla Walla Fire Department
Walla Walla County 5
West Benton
Hanford Fire