Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall with Inverell Shire Mayor Paul Harmon and Inverell firefighters in front of their new appliance recently.
Tuesday, 16 May 2017
BRAVERY may be the first item on a firefighter’s checklist – but it takes a lot more than just bravado to jump into a burning building. Before the first hose starts flowing, firies rely on months of training and some cutting edge technology to help battle a blaze.
This weekend’s Fire & Rescue NSW (FRNSW) Open Day offers the community a chance to learn more about the tactics, expertise and teamwork that keeps the community safe.
Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall is encouraging people to meet firefighters and learn about fire prevention when this Saturday, 20 May.
“A quiet day is a good day for a firefighter – but on Saturday, the action will be happening at stations all across the region as the public are welcomed in for a close look,” he said.
“Most FRNSW stations across the region will be open from 10am to 2pm, showing people of all ages the high-tech gear they use, offering insights on becoming a firefighter, as well as potentially life-saving tips on avoiding house fires.
“Children will be able to climb aboard a fire engine, see firefighting equipment up close and take home an educational Brigade Kids activity booklet.
“Grown-ups will be able to talk about fire prevention and have help forming a plan for if disaster strikes. This is a great opportunity for people young and old.”
Mr Marshall said FRNSW was focusing this year on fire prevention in the kitchen, urging people to ‘Keep Looking When Cooking’ and avoid a potentially fatal cooking-related fire injury.
“With winter coming, it’s important FRNSW works with the community to remind us all that almost half of all home fires start in the kitchen, usually when people get distracted and leave things to burn on the stovetop,” Mr Marshall said.
“I hope the community takes the time this FRNSW Open Day to visit one of our local stations to meet the hardworking men and women who selflessly respond to all manner of emergencies and learn from the experts about home fire safety.”
In the Northern Tablelands, the following fire stations will be open: Armidale, Uralla, Guyra, Glen Innes, Moree, Warialda and Inverell. If the station is not open when you arrive, crews may be attending to an emergency.
For details on participating fire stations visitwww.fire.nsw.gov.au