The volunteer firefighters of the Syosset Fire Department suited up this weekend, but they replaced their helmets with red stocking caps, their bunker pants with red velvet suits, and added buckles and beards. Instead of hoses and ladders, these fire-fighting Santas carried sacks filled with candy for the children and families of Syosset.

All of the fire trucks of Syosset's fleet were equipped with a volunteer Santa and his helpers, including elves and cartoon characters. Santa's helpers carried candy and gifts to the children as the trucks meandered through the streets of Syosset and Woodbury to the delight of the community. The fire department's holiday tour is a decades-long tradition as a part of Syosset's holiday celebration.

"We are focused on saving lives and helping the residents of Syosset," said Chief Richard Roseo, Chief of Department of the Syosset Fire Department. "But once a year, playing Santa gives us a chance to have some fun with the community and connect with the families."

The Syosset Volunteer Fire Department was established in 1915 and is composed of 121 men and women from Syosset and the surrounding communities. The department serves approximately 17 square miles, making it the largest response area in Nassau County. The District's fleet includes ten pieces of fire fighting apparatus, three ambulances and four chiefs' vehicles.

Requirements to become a volunteer fire fighter or emergency medical service member are as follows: members must be at least 18 years of age, pass a physical exam and an agility test, be cleared from an arson and reference background check. On becoming a member, the Fire District pays for protective equipment, clothing, training, etc. New members receive approximately 100 hours of training in their first two years in the department.

For information about becoming a member of the department, contact the office of the Chief of Department at 921-0728. For fire safety information, contact the Fire Prevention Office at 921-6597.