2009 Fire Prevention Open House a Success!

For once, the weathermen were right - it was going to be a gloomy, drizzly Saturday.  But nonetheless, the Westfield Fire Department Open House was a big success!  It's estimated that a few hundred people stopped in to get a sense for what firefighting is like and to understand a little more about fire prevention.  The smoke room was a big hit this year, with a large number of parents going in to see what it's like to be in an unfamiliar space, fully charged with smoke (training smoke).  Tied to this little "lesson," firefighters helped guests don a full set of gear and grab a set of irons and a water can.  Quote of the day - "Wow!  That's REALLY heavy!"  Yes folks, the stuff we use is heavy.  Many thanks to all the WFD members who came out to lend a hand for the event!  Some photos below.  Speical thanks to Lt. Nick DeJohn who captured the days events by taking over 250 photos.

Friends of Assistant Chief Ponzio enjoy the Open House. Yes Amelia and Andrew, you can come back any time you want.

FF Craig Butterworth takes visitors up for a ride in Ladder 6. Sweet.

Past Chief Joe Augeri trains one of the new recruits.  Joe - don't let the balloon string get caught.

FF Matt Caffrey shows some guests what we look/sound like with all our gear on.

FF Caffrey - quite impressive in all that gear!

Two guests "take the knob" and attack the fire.

FF Aaron Boyce shows 10-5-3(b) a few things about handling a hoseline.  Seems the future Captain was unimpressed.