MONROE COUNTY, Pa. — Kids with special needs got the chance to check out fire trucks, ambulances, and police cruisers at Pocono Mountain West High School. Organizers say the goal is to get the kids used to seeing first responders.
"We want our students to learn that these are helpers. And if something goes wrong, we look for our helper friends. We don't want our students to shy away or be afraid. And it's wonderful because our community helpers learn how to interact with our students who are non-verbal so it's a win-win situation," said Kelly Hixon.
First responders Newswatch 16 spoke with say Thursday's super hero day gave them a nice break.
"Most of the job is dealing with emergency situations. We show up because people are probably on their worst days. Being able to come out and do more community events." said Blake Nordmeyer with Pocono Mountain Regional EMS. "Get kids used to seeing the ambulance, seeing our uniforms, getting used to the safety of it in case any emergency were to happen for them. You know, it's a really nice break from doing the 911 calls and what we're used to."