Vineland firefighters selling romance by the dozen

VINELAND - Sure, they put out fires, but this weekend some first responders are ready to spark a little romance.

The Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association annual Valentine's Day weekend rose sale begins today promptly at 4 p.m.

Engine bays at Fire Company No. 6 will be blooming with more than 1,500 dozen roses.

For those overwhelmed by the selection, fire crews can offer some mutual aid, said firefighter Terry McManus, the Station 6 resident botanic romantic.

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There’s a cheat sheet available detailing the meaning of the petal pigments, which can help steer customers to a safe hue for those who “just want to stay friends," he said.

The traditional “I love you” red roses are selling two dozen for $40, said McManus, recommending them as a good choice for those who “want to kick things up a notch.”

Pretty pastels, including cream, coral, pink and purple, are two dozen for $25 and may be mixed or matched.

For more complicated relationships, some buds are multi-colored.

Clients often use the two-dozen combination for their wife and mother-in-law or wife and daughter.

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The deal is a good one for Vineland High students buying for their two girlfriends, McManus joked.

Customers should park in the Fourth Street parking lot and follow signs to the station’s side entrance. Firefighters are expecting brisk sales tomorrow, which is payday for City of Vineland employees. With Valentine’s Day falling on Sunday, many might want to start their Valentine's celebration on Friday night.

“Every few years, the stars align,” McManus said.

Flower sale proceeds fund the philanthropic community outreach of FMBA Locals 49/249.

McManus, an accomplished piper, isn’t making himself available for any romantic serenades.

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Thinking about love songs for bagpipes, McManus laughed.

“Are there any?” he asked.

The rose sale runs 4 pm. to 8 p.m. Thursday and  8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday through Sunday — or until they sell out.

Firefighters warn with the forecast calling for sub-freezing temperatures, do not leave the flowers in the vehicle.

The flowers, like the recipient, should be properly pampered, they suggest.

Deborah M. Marko; (856) 563-5256; dmarko@gannettnj.com