February 16, 2026 — The Alton Fire Department expressed its appreciation to residents and visitors who stopped by the department’s staging area during the 2026 Winter Carnival, highlighting the strong sense of community support demonstrated throughout the event. Firefighters had the opportunity to engage with attendees, answer questions, and showcase specialized apparatus used for winter and ice-related responses. Department officials noted that participating in community events such as the Winter Carnival reinforces the connection between first responders and the residents they serve. Members emphasized their pride in protecting the town both during large public gatherings and through daily emergency response operations, thanking everyone who contributed to the event’s success and continued support of local public safety efforts.