Chelsea Fire Department Hosts Open House for National Fire Prevention Week

To help further the efforts of fire safety during National Fire Prevention Week, the Chelsea Area Fire Authority is opening its doors to the public on Oct. 21.

Area children and families can stop by the fire station, located at 200 W. Middle St., between noon and 4 p.m. Events include a hands-on vehicle extrication display, inflatable bounce house, tours of the station, fire hose demonstrations, and presentations by local first responders.

"The open house is first and foremost about teaching kids, introducing firefighters to the kids, and reinforcing what they learn in school," Capt. Augustine Syrovy said. "We want people to come and meet us, check out the renovated station and see where their tax dollars are being spent."

From 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. firefighters will offer evacuation demonstrations from a smoke trailer. In addition, Dryer Vent Wizard International will demonstrate how to avoid fires caused by poorly maintained or clogged dryer vents.

The company will also distribute educational handouts and fun give-aways.  Everyone who attends will be eligible to enter a prize drawing for a dinner for two, at the Common Grill restaurant in Chelsea.

As part of National Fire Prevention Week, DVW franchises throughout the country are participating in a month-long fundraising drive for the Children’s Burn Foundation, which provides services to help children nationwide who have been burned in fires. Donations to CBF can be made online at DryerVentWizard.com.

“We are pleased to participate in a nationwide effort to raise money for the Children’s Burn Foundation which offers fire safety prevention and education along with much needed services to help children burned in fires,” said Greg Longe, DVW co-founder and former CEO.  “An important part of our service delivery is to educate people about how they can minimize the risk of dryer fires by following easy tips for dryer maintenance.”

Syrovy said the open house typically draws 300-500 kids every year.

"The kids really enjoy getting an up close look and climbing on the fire trucks," he said.

Representatives from Huron Valley Ambulance, the Chelsea Police Department, and the American Red Cross will also be on hand to answer questions.

Donuts, apple cider, coffee, hot chocolate, popcorn, cookies and hot dogs will be provided for free throughout the afternoon.

For more information, call 734-475-8755.