Miscouche Fire Department spreading birthday wishes to kids in their community during social distancing protocols

Sylvie Noall, 9, wasn't expecting to see a fire truck with lights flashing in celebration of her birthday pull up to her house, but because of social distancing rules her birthday party at end of March was cancelled, the department is hoping to spread birthday wishes to Sylvie and other kids in the department's fire district who might not be able to have a traditional party. - Contributed

MISCOUCHE, P.E.I. — Nine-year-old Sylvie Noall wasn't expecting to see a fire truck with lights flashing on her birthday Monday, April 6, but as the truck pulled up she could only stand there in shock.

"She was so excited to go back to school and celebrate her birthday with her friends, but then I had to tell her, 'Oh honey, we can't go back just now'," said Sylvie's mom, Claire.

Her birthday party was supposed to be at the end of March, but because of the social distancing protocols in place on P.E.I. her party was cancelled.

On Monday the Miscouche Fire Department posted on Facebook that they would drive by houses in the fire district in order to wish kids happy birthday.

"A friend of mine knew it was her birthday and they sent me a screenshot of their post on Facebook. I gave them a call and they came within a few minutes."

Greetings residents, We understand that social distancing can be difficult and even more so for children. So if your...
Posted by Miscouche Fire Dept. on Monday, April 6, 2020

Noall said her daughter was in shock upon the truck's arrival.

"She was really excited she couldn't believe it was for her. I think she was in so much shock. It's so nice that they're doing it. Her grandparents drove by and waved at her but it's not the same. But I think kids can take it in their stride while we try to explain to it them. It's awesome that the fire department is doing this for the community."

The Miscouche Fire Department is helping wish boys and girls in their fire district a happy birthday by driving by their home with a fire truck with lights on. They're offering to help with celebrations due to the social distancing protocols in place on P.E.I. - Contributed

Fire Chief Jason Woodbury said the initiative started in hopes of showing kids in the Miscouche community and the department's fire district that something good will come out of this pandemic.

The fire department will turn on lights and drive-by any home in the fire district to make up for the disappointment or challenges that might come with not having a traditional birthday party.

"We'll show up out of appreciation for their birthday with the lights flashing and a firefighter will wish them a happy birthday. We've already done one and we have another one set up on Thursday," said Woodbury.

He said the response from the community has been great.

"These are unprecedented times. And we're trying to service and cater to our community in these times."

The communities in department's district where people can request a drive-by include Miscouche, Belmont, Lot 16, St. Nicholas and parts of Union Corner.

To contact the department for birthday drive-by call 902-315-4692.