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By DREW GRANTHUM/Staff Writer

Santa Claus will once again be working hand-in-hand with the Thorsby Fire Department to ride through the streets of the town on Christmas Eve.

As usual, the jolly man in the red suit will trade off his sleigh to ride on the top of a fire truck before heading out around the world to deliver presents.

This marks the 13^th year the TFD and Santa have partnered to visit the town, which will take place from 5:30-8 p.m.

As was the case last year, Santa will be making stops along the route to greet residents and stop for pictures.

Fire chief Lee Gunn said the opportunity to take pictures was a hit with residents.

“Last year we started stopping to do photos,” he said. “It’s worked out really well. This lets people see the guys. It puts the personal side of (the job on display).”

In case of inclement weather, citizens may visit Santa at the fire station in Thorsby between the hours of 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. If inclement weather occurs after Santa is out on the vehicles, he will be returned to the fire station and available there for approximately one hour after returning.

In a release by the TFD, the squad reminded residents of the town to “not call 911 to inquire about Santa. You may call the fire station at 646-3725 to determine a tentative schedule of Santa’s arrival near their home. Please do not call this number in case of emergency. For emergencies, dial 911.”
The release also stated that if for some reason the vehicles carrying Santa have to respond to a call, the department will do all it can to make sure Santa can still get to everyone.

“It is important to stress that Santa will be riding emergency vehicles that are on duty and on call. If an emergency occurs, these vehicles will have to break away from Santa duty and respond to the emergency. In this case, we will make every effort to continue with Santa, but the emergency situation takes priority. We apologize for any inconvenience and will do our best to have Santa visit as many neighborhoods and streets as possible.”

Stops include: 241 Frank St. at 5:50 p.m.; Robinson Lane and Deer Drive at 5:45 p.m.; , 8401 Jones St. at 6:10 p.m.; 60 Kaitlyn Dr. at 6:30 p.m.;  Howard Street at 6:45 p.m.; 25 Peachtree Dr. at 7:15 p.m.; Wilson Circle and Glen Drive at 7:45 p.m. and Medical Center Drive at 7:45 p.m.