Smoke Machine Causes a Scare

Diners at Blue Moon Mexican Cafe got a real-life scare Saturday when a smoke machine got the attention of the Wyckoff Fire Department.

The restaurant fully embraced the Halloween spirit, as the Boulder Run eatery was decorated with all the trappings of the holiday—pumpkins, lights, cobwebs, hanging ghosts, etc. The wait and host staff also got in the spirit with costumes, and Lickerish the Clown made balloons for kids at the door.

But, a smoke machine used to amplify the spooky effects set off the restaurant's smoke detectors, prompting a visit from Fire Co. 1, Chief David Murphy said. 

The firefighters were only on the scene for about 15 minutes, but the company's engine and presence may have been enough to deter would-be diners, although onlookers milled about the entrance. Several children who had been eating may have been spooked, as they cried in their costumes near the entrance. Host staff said it was too bad something so minor had to "waste" the time of the fire department.

Pat Fitapelli, general manager, said it was an unfortunate disturbance with a silver lining: "At least we know everything works."