by Stephen Dafoe
The Morinville Fire Department partnered with the National Fire Protection Association for an open house on Saturday, Oct. 22. 2022 marks the 100th anniversary of Fire Prevention Month, and the open house gave area residents an opportunity to learn about this year’s Fire Prevention Theme, Fire Won’t Wait, Plan Your Escape.
In addition to seeing firefighting vehicles and equipment, there was an additional educational component where parents could get information on planning escape routes, and children could draw a picture of the layout of their rooms to help with fire preparedness.
The National Fire Protection Association encourages households to practice their escape routes at least twice per year, once in daylight and once after dark.
“Many people don’t realize today’s homes burn faster than ever, so planning a way out is essential,” said Morinville Fire Chief/Manager, Community Safety Services Brad Boddez in a Town of Morinville release prior to the event. “By hosting an Open House, we can engage with and teach effective ways to stay safe from fire.”
At the event, Boddez said he was pleased with Saturday’s turnout. Despite cold temperatures and intermittent rain, approximately 500 adults and children came out to take a look and talk to firefighters.
A free hot dog lunch, courtesy of Chris & Tracey’s No Frills, was a popular element of the day, as were the vehicle extraction demonstrations using motor vehicle collision and rescue gear.
Three demonstrations were held over the four hours, with Lieutenant Lane Hardman and Senior Firefighter Tyler Proulx demonstrating several pieces of gear during the third and final demonstration.
Morinville’s Open House was one of many Fire Prevention Month activities taking place throughout the region and across the country. Sturgeon County celebrated Fire Prevention Week earlier in October.
Ryker Abbenhuis and his mom Avalon lift a high-rise pack weighing approximately 100 pounds as firefighter Bradford Bullock watches. – Stephen Dafoe Photo
