Fire Station sets Open House for Saturday, Oct. 15

MURPHY (September 21, 2022) The firefighter/paramedics along with the command staff of Murphy Fire Rescue cordially invite residents to the Murphy Fire Station on Saturday, Oct. 15 to take part in the traditional Fire Station Open House.

Doors to the event open at 10 a.m. at the station, 206 North Murphy Road, and festivities continue until 2 p.m. Parking is readily available at the various City Hall lots on the municipal campus. Open House guests should refrain from parking in the lots immediately adjacent to the Fire Station, as those spots are reserved for staff and emergency vehicles.

As customary, the Open House concludes the annual celebration of Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 9 through 15. This year's theme is "Fire Won't Wait, Plan Your Escape."

This year, firefighters will emphasize that families should put together an escape plan that gets occupants out of a burning structure, including the selection of a meeting point away from the building. Even a simple drawing of a home's layout with arrows pointing from each room to the nearest exit are effective, but only if all family members participate.

Firefighters also encourage families to conduct unannounced fire drills. An adult can signal the start of a drill by blowing a whistle or making some other loud noise. Family members at home should respond by evacuating the home without hesitation, and meeting at a prearranged location outside the home.

The Open House will feature live demonstrations of the various firefighting and life-saving activities that firefighters and paramedics undertake on a daily basis. Attendees may also take advantage of tours of the Fire Station, learning how firefighters spend their days. A highlight will be the landing of the Careflite helicopter on the grounds of the municipal complex unless a real-life emergency occurs requiring the crew's assistance.

Younger children will be invited to play in the bounce house shaped like a fire truck, and kids of all ages will be challenged to master the Junior Firefighter Obstacle Course. Games, movies, and CPR demonstrations will also be part of the festivities. As always, Sparky the Fire Dog will make an appearance greeting attendees and posing for photographs. Free food and drinks will be offered.

Further information on the Open House, or on any aspect of fire safety, can be obtained by calling the Fire Department at (972) 468-4300.