Hundreds of fire stations across the state will throw open their doors to the community this Saturday as part of the Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) Open Day to encourage people to learn more about Australia’s largest urban fire and rescue service.
Member for Epping Dominic Perrottet said the Open Day was a chance for locals to gain a better understanding of the work firefighters do every day to protect the community.
“I want to encourage families across the Epping Electorate to head down to their local fire station to have a chat to firefighters, learn how to be fire-safe and learn about the hazards they face,” Mr Perrottet said.
“This is also an opportunity for everyone to say thank you in person to their local firefighters who deal with dangerous situations on a daily basis in order to keep the people of Epping safe.”
A range of free activities will be available at Beecroft, Eastwood and Castle Hill fire stations, including firefighting demonstrations, station tours and safety presentations.
Families will have the opportunity to get up close to firefighters, firetrucks and special equipment while learning about the critical work they do to safeguard the community.
Minister for Emergency Services David Elliott said the Open Day was a chance to thank their local firies for their commitment to protecting life and property.
“The brave men and women of Fire and Rescue NSW put their lives on the line to keep the community safe,” Mr Elliott said.
“The Open Day is an opportune time to thank these heroes for the work they do every day.”
FRNSW Commissioner Paul Baxter said the Open Day was an opportunity to show people that FRNSW firefighters do so much more than fight fires.
“Our firefighters do fight fires and save people from burning buildings, but our mission and capabilities extend far beyond fire response,” Mr Baxter said.
“The Open Day is a great time to talk to experts about home fire safety in the lead up to winter. We see a 10 per cent increase in the number of home fires during the winter months, with more fires starting in bedrooms and lounge rooms due to things like heaters and electric blankets.”