Why can't the Fire Department come to my child's birthday party?

The Hudson Fire Department use to enjoy bringing the fire engine to children's birthday parties. Over the past few years, the increase in emergency calls for service, cost of fuel, and logistics to enable the on duty crew to attend a birthday party has resulted in the fire department having to respectfully decline birthday invitations. We encourage parents to arrange a tour of the fire station either before the birthday party or take the time to come down during the party to see the fire apparatus. This provides the fire department an opportunity to promote fire safety and education to the children and parents. We often have educational materials and fire hats that would add to the excitement of a child's birthday. 
As an additional note, you will see a fire engine and crew at community events such as Old Home Days, Fright Night, business openings, and other venues where a large number of the population may be expected to be in attendance. This allows us to reach as much of the Hudson population as possible to provide fire safety and prevention information.