PARK RIDGE—The Park Ridge Fire Prevention Bureau, with the able aid of the GFWC Greater Pascack Valley Woman’s Club, held the lively annual Peter J. Harkin Babysitters Program on Oct. 2 and 3.
Approximately 35 area children ages 10 and up followed speakers from the fire department, led by Lt. Brad Moser and fire marshal John Hansen.
Students interacted with presentations led by Josephine Higgins from the Tri-Boro Volunteer Ambulance Corps; Park Ridge Police Detective Gerry Powers; and Dr. Mayer, of Chestnut Ridge Pediatrics.
Participants learned babysitting safety through presentations and videos. Alert attendance at both sessions was required for certification.
Mayor Keith Misciagna congratulated the graduates and helped hand out their certification cards — an important and handy credential.
Program namesake Harkin, of Park Ridge, died on Sept. 29, 2010, age 71. He was a parishioner of Church of Our Lady of Mercy Church, and an exempt member of the Park Ridge Volunteer Fire Department, where he was a lieutenant and captain. He was president of the Park Ridge Firemen’s Association, 1980–1982, and a founder of the annual babysitting course. He was a U.S. Army veteran, and a former chief lineman for Consolidated Edison.
Organizers tell Pascack Press the vital course has been offered each fall for more than 40 years. CPR certification is not included.
For more information about the PRFD visit parkridgefire.com. For more information on GPVWC visit their website.