October is Fire Prevention Awareness Month, and the Uniondale Fire Department welcomed the community to their fire station to learn about fire safety.
“We try to promote fire safety and make it a family-friendly affair,” George Martinez, chief of the fire department, said.
Fire trucks filled the back parking lot of the Van Ness fire station on Oct. 12 for the department’s annual open house, and people were invited to get an up-close look at all of the department’s apparatus. There was also a smoke trailer that simulates a smoke condition, where people learn to drop low to the ground in order to exit without inhaling smoke.
Firefighters cooked hamburgers and hot dogs, and there was also popcorn, cotton candy, and an ice cream truck people enjoyed for free. Kids jumped in the bounce house and went down the inflatable slide, both shaped like fire trucks.
Throughout the day, firefighters gave demonstrations and explanations on how to best prevent fires and what to do when fires break out.
“Always make sure the stove is off when you leave,” Martinez said, “make sure you blow out candles when you leave the home.”
“Don’t plug too many things into outlets, and make sure there’s an adult in the house,” he added.
Fire Prevention Month is celebrated in October, and the goal is to “raise fire safety awareness and help protect homes and families,” according to FirstAlert.com.
The American Red Cross Long Island chapter had a booth set up with fire safety tips and information. They handed out a variety of materials, including smoke detectors that can be installed for free.
They also had flyers with more fire safety information on them, including tips such as closing the door before going to sleep for an added barrier in case a fire breaks out outside the room.
As overall safety was emphasized throughout the five hour event, two representatives from the Town of Hempstead Town Clerk’s office were there completing Child Safety I.D. Kits. Representatives took photos of kids and stamped their fingerprints on cards for parents or guardians to take home, so if something happens to the kids, the parents have records to give to the police to help them in their investigation.
To learn more about Child Safety I.D. Kits, call (516) 812-3046.
As the Uniondale fire department continues their efforts to keep the community safe, Martinez said they are always in need of more volunteers.
“Feel free to come any Sunday morning at 9 a.m. to any firehouse,” he said to anyone interested in joining the fire department.