The East Meadow Fire Department highlighted lithium-ion battery safety and offered live emergency-response demonstrations during its annual Fire Prevention Open House on Oct. 9.
The event took place from 6 to 9 p.m. at fire headquarters, 197 East Meadow Ave., at Front Street, giving residents an opportunity to learn about fire prevention and meet local volunteers.
Phones, tablets, laptops, portable tools, toys, electric bicycles and scooters depend on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which store large amounts of energy in small spaces. Damaged batteries and those charged improperly can overheat and cause fires.
The East Meadow Fire Department and the National Fire Protection Association selected “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower” as the theme of Fire Prevention Week, observed Oct. 4 through 10.
This year’s open house featured several new attractions, including a smoke trailer designed to teach residents how to respond when smoke fills a home, an obstacle course for children, a water extinguisher prop and a propane burn-off kit demonstration by the Nassau County fire marshal.
Attendees also watched demonstrations involving oven fires, roof cutting and vehicle extrication. Fire truck rides and free snacks were offered during the event.
“The EMFD annual open house is an excellent opportunity to see first-hand the equipment and techniques used to keep our community safe, meet the volunteers, and learn how you can get involved,” Commissioner William J. Neill said. “We are always looking for community-minded men and women to join our team as firefighters or EMS volunteers, and we encourage those interested to stop by the open house for more information.”
The department serves East Meadow and portions of Levittown and the Salisbury section of Westbury. It is seeking volunteers to serve as firefighters and emergency medical personnel.
No previous experience is required, and the department provides the necessary training. Benefits available to volunteers include tax breaks, college scholarships, annual health examinations, life insurance and participation in a service award pension program, all at no cost.
Those interested in volunteering can learn more at eastmeadowfd.com or call (516) 542-4565.
In the event of a fire or medical emergency, residents may call the East Meadow Fire Department at (516) 542-0576. Additional fire-safety information is available on the department’s website.
