The Mount Prospect Fire Department has launched a new initiative combining fire safety education with the tradition of summer reading.
The department's new Fire Prevention Library Boxes, located outside all three fire stations, are filled with fire safety information, coloring books, bookmarks and other free items, as well as books that can be taken home, read and returned.
"We recognize the importance of combining fire safety education with the benefits of reading," Fire Chief John Dolan said in an announcement of the new program.
"My interest in the fire service started as a child reading the book 'The Monster at the End of This Book: Starring Lovable, Furry Old Grover' by Jon Stone. It taught me to always keep turning the page. Books are a wonderful way for adults and children alike to explore and learn."