Hartley's pool may be out of commission, but that didn't stop kids and adults alike from finding a creative way to cool down on Aug. 11.

The Hartley Fire Department hosted water fights on Central Avenue. Local children enjoyed duking it out and soaking one another while trying to move a suspended bucket with a stream of water. The firemen followed, waging battle against the bucket as spectators looked on.

Hartley Fire Chief Brad Meendering said the water fights help firemen get acquainted with their equipment while giving the hoses some much needed use. The event also served as a fundraiser for the Hartley Rec Trail Committee, which served a meal of hotdogs, chips and drinks for a free will donation.

MIKE PETERSEN/SENTINEL-NEWS

Sawyer Van Ravenswaay lets out a victory yell.