Iberia Rural Fire Protection District invites community to visit booth

IBERIA — Ever wonder what it's like to try on firefighting gear or explore life-saving rescue tools? Then don't miss your chance to visit the Iberia Rural Fire Protection District’s display during Iberia Fallfest on Saturday, Oct. 21 across from the library on St. Louis Street in downtown Iberia.

Attendees can stop by the Iberia Rural Fire Protection District’s booth from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. to learn more about volunteering opportunities and to chat with members of the fire department. The fire department will also participate in the Fallfest parade at 11 a.m.

“It’s a good time to get to know your fire department and the volunteers who operate it,” said Iberia Chief Greg Onstott. “Fallfest is just a great opportunity for camaraderie among the community.”

A variety of firefighting gear and equipment will be on display and available for demonstrations. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to put on self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) or learn how to use hydraulic rescue tools used to free victims involved in vehicle accidents.

Community members interested in volunteering opportunities, including firefighters, administrative volunteers, firehouse maintenance and cadet volunteers (13-17 years old), are encouraged to pick up a brochure at the booth. Volunteers will be on hand to answer questions about ways to get involved at Iberia Rural Fire Protection District.

Fire Prevention Week (Oct. 8-14) falls the week prior to Fallfest, and Chief Onstott says the fire department will have smoke alarms at their booth to remind community members that smoke alarms save lives. Volunteers will demonstrate how to properly install and maintain smoke alarms, which play a vital role in reducing fire deaths and injuries.

For Fire Prevention Week, Iberia Rural Fire Protection District is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to promote this year’s campaign, “Cooking safety starts with YOU. Pay attention to fire prevention.”

The NFPA provides these key safety tips to help reduce the risk of a cooking fire:

• Watch what you heat. Always keep a close eye on what you are cooking. Set a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove. Always keep a lid nearby when cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner.
• Have a “kids-free zone” of at least 3 feet (1 meter) around the stove or grill and anywhere else hot food or drink is prepared or carried.

For more information, visit Iberia Rural Fire Protection District at the Fallfest or to fill out an inquiry form at www.iberiafire.org.