Fire Dept. Open House Educates, Entertains

By LESLEY GRAHAM The Ocean City Fire Department held its annual family-fun open house Thursday evening at the Sixth Street Fire Station. The OCFD was joined by local agencies, including neighboring fire departments and emergency services, to provide the public insight into the workings of the department. There were a variety of demonstrations scheduled for the evening that included a Jaws of Life extraction, a controlled burn to show how quickly household items can be engulfed in flames and a smoke room hosted by North Wildwood Fire Department. There were a variety of child-friendly activities as well. A maze to simulate crawling to safety, followed by stop, drop and roll, and the opportunity to use the fire hose to put out an imaginary fire were all on hand for the community. Although the air was chilled and the wind was whipping, it did not stop the community from coming out and participating in the activities. Sebastian Judge, 4, sprays water from a hose while pretending to put out a fire. Firefighter Sean Kruger, a four-year veteran of the force, said the OCFD puts on the open house in hopes of educating the community. “It coincides with Fire Prevention Week. This year’s theme was two ways out, encouraging families to have a plan and to practice the plan before an emergency happens,” Kruger said Thursday evening. Kids enjoyed face painting and complimentary snacks, their own firefighting helmet and coloring books as take-home souvenirs for their participation. The Howell family, Jon and Desiree, with children Brooklyn, 5, Jonny Jr., 3, and Archer, 3 months, make the open house an annual family outing. “It’s a great way to connect with other members of our community, see school friends and help remind the kids about fire safety,” the Howells said. The Howell family makes the open house an annual tradition. The Sullivan family, in town for the Fall Block Party last weekend, decided to extend their stay so they could enjoy the open house. “We came last year and it was a lot of fun. The kids really enjoyed it,” said Erin Sullivan of Atglen, Pa. Sullivan’s 4-year-old daughter, Harper, enjoyed shooting the fire hose the most. Although the evening was filled with fun, it also carried a deeper message about fire safety and prevention. National Fire Prevention Week seeks to educate families about small but important ways in which they can keep themselves safe. The Ocean City Fire Department shows off the newest member of the fleet.