Western Salisbury Volunteer Fire Company firefighters and their family members conducted their annual holiday Santa run Dec. 21, 2019 through neighborhoods in the company’s fire protection district.

Santa and Mrs. Claus, assisted by firefighter Jared Tierno and auxiliary member Nicole Sylvester, flanked by firefighters in full turnout gear, jumped on and off the rear bumper platform of the antique 1965 American LaFrance engine over an eight-hour run to greet youngsters and their parents.

The Grinch, assisted by fire Lt. Ramon Deeb, was also along to provide mischievous amusement for the Santa run. Deeb assisted Santa for the second half of the run, while firefighter Ryan Lutseo assisted the Grinch.

Santa and Mrs. Claus handed out candy canes to children greeting them as the engine’s sirens announced Santa was in the neighborhood. Family dogs were treated to dog biscuits, and in some cases children received gifts their families had provided for surprise delivery.

Western Salisbury Volunteer Fire Company Chief Joshua Wells, who was behind the wheel of the company’s big aerial ladder truck, said, “The annual fire prevention programs in our schools and the holiday Santa run are highlights our firefighters enjoy each year as they get an opportunity to interact with the youngsters who reside in our fire district.”

Wells said the good community interaction for firefighters was a welcome offset to the nearly 450 calls for help the fire company responded to in 2019.