Sparky welcomes community members to the open house.
The tantalizing smell of freshly popped corn and grilled hot dogs
filled the air, toe-tapping music stirred the spirit, and bright smiles
greeted visitors at the annual Enon Volunteer Fire Department
Open House.
Kids had two bounce houses to choose from, fire trucks to climb in,
a special fire boat to explore, crafting in the fire station, the Fire and
Life Safety Trailer, snow cones of many flavors, cold soft drinks, and
the grilled hot dogs and popcorn.
The rain held off and made for a fun event, but even more
important than the fun was: the opportunity for the community to
learn safety tips that may one day save their lives if they experience
a fire. The event also provided a chance for children to get
acquainted with firefighters and see up close the equipment and
vehicles that may be frightening to them in an emergency. A child
experiencing a fire situation may be frightened, and instead of going
to firefighters who are trying to help them during the emergency,
they may run and hide. Early exposure to firefighters and seeing
firefighters in their protective gear and the fire vehicles help ease
the fears of the children, who then will be better prepared during a
dangerous situation.
Fire safety pamphlets were available, and firefighters answered
visitor’s questions.
The Fire and Life Safety Trailer offered an opportunity for one to
learn what to do and not to do in a fire situation. “Safe smoke” fills
the air inside, and children learn how to escape as quickly and safely
as possible. It’s a great learning experience for adults as well.
Sparky the Fire Dog was a hit; giggles from the children could be
heard as they ran to hug their new furry safety friend.
The band Smoke and Wine had a song to please everyone. They
played a variety of music from Johnny Cash’s “Jackson” to Pharrell
Williams’ “Happy.”
All too soon, it was time to part, and another day of a great
community gathering was accomplished, a day that just may save a
life.
