Fire stations across various regions are inviting the community to participate in exciting open day events on Saturday, May 10, 2025. From educational demonstrations to fun activities for children, these events aim to foster a stronger connection between local fire services and the public.
Fire and Rescue New South Wales (FRNSW) is set to host its annual Open Day, welcoming visitors to stations in Evans Head, Coraki, Casino, and Kyogle from 10 AM to 2 PM. This year’s theme emphasizes fire safety awareness, particularly the importance of having a working smoke alarm as winter approaches. Acting Captain John Plenkovich highlighted the critical nature of smoke alarms, stating, "People cannot smell smoke when they are asleep, so having a working smoke alarm is crucial." He further noted that "when a fire takes hold, every second counts. In less than 30 seconds, a small flame can turn into a major fire."
Visitors can expect a variety of free activities, including firefighting demonstrations, station tours, and safety presentations. Firefighters will also provide valuable insights into the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, which are becoming increasingly common in portable electronic devices. Plenkovich warned, "Lithium-ion batteries are the fastest growing fire risk in NSW, so it is important for people to understand how to charge devices safely and what they can do if they catch fire." This proactive approach is part of FRNSW's commitment to community safety.
Meanwhile, in McCammon, Idaho, a brand new Fire Station and Ambulance Bay will officially open its doors on the same day. The opening ceremony, scheduled for 3 PM to 6 PM at 100 Center Street, will feature a ribbon-cutting event and an open house. This facility includes six vehicle bays and living quarters for staff, and will also house McCammon city offices and a Bannock County Sheriff’s Office substation. The construction of this station, which began in April 2024, aims to enhance emergency services in the Marsh Valley, significantly reducing response times to rural areas that previously relied on volunteers from Pocatello.
In West Linton, a summer safety open day will take place from 10 AM to 1 PM, allowing children to experience the life of a firefighter. Young attendees will have the opportunity to meet the crew, explore the fire engine, and even try out the fire hose. Local support from the Police Scotland road safety unit and ambulance service will enhance the event, which includes a drawing competition for local schools. Firefighter Suzie expressed enthusiasm for the event, stating, "The weather is looking great for the event, so hopefully we get a good turnout!" The day promises various activities, including a smoke vision blindfold challenge, an interactive quiz, and safety demonstrations.
Additionally, Helensburgh Fire Station will celebrate its 50th birthday with an open day from 12 PM to 4 PM. This event will feature family-friendly activities such as a bouncy castle and an ice cream van, alongside opportunities to meet the station's crew and search dog. The station invites local organizations to promote their services at this milestone celebration.
In light of the upcoming winter months, FRNSW is also urging residents to establish a home fire safety plan. Crews will be available at their stations to assist locals in mapping out effective safety strategies during the open day. This initiative underlines the importance of preparedness and community engagement in preventing fire-related incidents.
As the open day events unfold across different regions, they serve not only as a platform for learning about fire safety but also as a means of strengthening community ties. Whether through hands-on experiences or informative presentations, these gatherings highlight the vital role firefighters play in public safety and the importance of community awareness in fire prevention.
With a range of activities designed to engage and educate, the open days represent a unique opportunity for families to connect with their local fire services and learn essential safety tips. As communities come together to celebrate and learn, the hope is that increased awareness will lead to a safer environment for all.
