From Fire Trucks to Rubber Ducks

Fire departments are the heart of every community. You respond when emergencies strike, educate kids about fire safety, and show up to every parade. But funding? Between equipment costs, training needs, and community programs, there's never enough. Duck races are changing that — and firefighters are having a blast doing it.

A volunteer fire department in West Virginia raised $28,000 at their duck race — enough to purchase new thermal imaging cameras they'd been fundraising for over two years. One event. Done.

Why Fire Departments Crush Duck Races

• Firefighters are community heroes — people will support ANYTHING you organize

• Fire trucks make incredible backdrop props and can even deploy ducks into the water

• You already have the logistics expertise for managing large crowds and outdoor events

• The fire department network means mutual aid companies can help promote across the region

The Fire Department Duck Race Experience

Imagine this: the fire truck backs up to the bridge, the aerial ladder extends over the creek, and a giant net full of 5,000 rubber ducks opens up. They splash into the water as hundreds of families cheer. A rescue boat crew monitors the finish line. It's spectacular.

Revenue and Impact

• Small volunteer departments: $10,000-$25,000

• Mid-size departments: $25,000-$50,000

• Large departments with community support: $50,000-$100,000+

A career department in New Jersey partnered with the firefighters' union to sell 8,500 ducks at $10 each. With sponsors and event-day sales, they raised $112,000 for their burn foundation.

Fire Department-Specific Tips

• Use the aerial truck to release ducks — it's an incredible photo/video moment

• Offer fire truck rides as a premium duck adoption perk

• Set up fire safety demonstrations and let kids spray the fire hose

• Create 'Firefighter Challenge' sponsor tiers: Sparky Level, Engine Level, Chief Level

• Have firefighters in full turnout gear act as race officials — the visual is fantastic

• Partner with neighboring departments for mutual promotion

Protecting Your Community, One Duck at a Time

You run into burning buildings. Organizing a duck race should be a walk in the park. And the funds you raise go directly toward keeping your community safer. Derby Duck Races salutes your service and is ready to help you plan an unforgettable event!