Firefighters confronted by supportive graffiti at stations

Columbus firefighters are enjoying some encouraging graffiti on their station windows.

According to the fire department, the writing with phrases such as “Thank You,” “Stay Strong” and “Firemen are our Heroes” were painted over the weekend by members of the firefighters families, who cleared their actions with Fire Chief Andy Lay before their spree of praise and support.

Lay said that since the start of restrictions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic city fire stations have been closed to the public including family members of the firefighters. Lay said that the graffiti organizers agreed to remain on the exterior of the fire stations as a safety precaution.

Lay said support from the community has been immense. The Columbus Fire Department has been the recipient of cleaning supplies and hand sanitizer donations from area businesses, schools, and community organizations, and food donations from local restaurants and grocery stores.