(WBIR - HARRIMAN) Harriman firefighters found an eerie use for a spooky abandoned building downtown. The former medical center hasn't been in use for the past four years.
The idea of a haunted house isn't a new one for the Harriman Fire Department. Firefighters used to put on the Halloween event every year.
"We just needed a break from it, so we just took a couple years off, and we hope it kicks back up for us again. This is a perfect place to start," said Harriman Fire Chief Brad Goss.
Firefighters design rooms and wear costumes. Every dollar raised goes back into the department to help fund a new rescue unit.
"We currently don't have a true rescue unit. So we're running rescue tools off of our engines. We're trying to make it the best quality service we can for Harriman, you know. That's going to aid us greatly. It's going to be a great asset not only to the city, but the department and the safety of our residents," said Goss.
Harriman city officials hope this could put the vacant building on the map and eventually out of their hands.
"You know, we may have somebody come through and find some interest in this building," said Goss.
"We're hoping someone will eventually buy it and take it off our hands. It's sad to see spaces through the downtown stretch," said Harriman events coordinator and spokeswoman Rebecca Schwepfinger.
Earlier this month, the police department used one wing of the building for K-9 training.
Some film crews have taken an interest in the building over the past few years.
"Last month, A&E came in and shot one of their episodes and I think part of a documentary here. It's a good building if someone wants to shoot a movie or anything here," said Schwepfinger.
The fire department is hoping to raise at least $5,000. Entry is $10 for adults and $5 for children under age 13 years.
The haunted house opens up Oct. 29 and 30.
