Chatham fire station is opening its doors for a free fun-filled family open day on Saturday 22 September 2018.

Come and meet the local fire crew between 11am and 4pm and get some great tips to help you and your loved-ones stay safe.

Chatham fire station leader Anthony Fox said: “There will be plenty of free activities and a programme of displays for all the family to enjoy. The event promises to be a fun and informative day for all who attend and we look forward to welcoming families along.”

A focal point of the event will be a hazard room display. Families will be invited to spot potential fire safety hazards in a specially created domestic scene. Later in the day, crews will hold a fire demonstration, which will highlight how quickly a fire can take hold and the importance of having a fire escape plan.

Road safety will also be a key focus and there will be a rescue demonstration showing the challenges crews face at the scene of a car crash. Visitors (over 14) will be able to have a go on a seat belt sled, which highlights the importance of wearing a seatbelt at all times while travelling in a vehicle. People will also be able to check out Kent fire and Rescue Service’s (KFRS) fire bike and learn more about motorcyclist awareness and safety.

A range of specialist equipment will be on display, that fire crews use to attend a wide range of emergency incidents, including fire engines, a height vehicle and the water safety unit and fire launch based at Sheppey fire station. There will also be a display of vintage firefighting equipment from the Kent Firefighting Museum.

Little ones will be able to dress up in firefighter gear and climb aboard the fire engine for a photo. They can also have a go at squirting water onto mini wooden fire houses, get their face painted and more.

KFRS' community safety team will be holding cooking oil pan demonstrations throughout the day and highlighting how to avoid a kitchen fire in your home. Visitors can also find out about the free services KFRS provides to help keep more vulnerable members of the community safe, including free safe and well visits.

People can chat to firefighters and KFRS volunteers to learn more about keeping about protecting themselves from fire and other risks, and take away some vital first-aid skills.
There will be free basic life-support and CPR sessions, which will include guidance on using a public access defibrillator (PAD) , as well as a chance to learn more about what to do to avoid, and treat, burns and scolds.

If you're considering a new career, have a chat with our HR team to find out about job and apprenticeship opportunities.

Partner organisations will also be in attendance offering advice and information, including Kent Police, HM Coastguard and Guide-dog puppies and handlers.

Refreshments will be available to buy on the day, including a charity cake stall, barbecue, tea and coffee and ice-creams.