The second annual fire safety and awareness open house was held on Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017 at the Mattawa Fire Hall.
Many families visited and learned more about the numerous tasks that the firefighters perform; they were able to inspect the fire equipment. In addition, many live demonstrations were carried out in the parking lot some of which included participation by attendees. Many businesses contributed to the events and demonstrations as noted below.
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and local Emergency Medical Services (EMS) also had representatives attending the event. Families were able to tour the respective vehicles from both agencies and get information about their respective services.
Sparky, the department mascot, enthusiastically participated in the event!
Mattawa Fire Equipment
Our future firefighters…
OPP Equipment
Our future police force…
The OPP brought their high tech toys. They demonstrated their drone. So here is looking at the open house from an entirely different perspective…
EMS Equipment
Sparky
Of course, Sparky, the department mascot, tried to steal the show! Do you know The Story of Sparky the Fire Dog ?
Everyone enjoyed having their photos taken with the famous Dalmatian.
Extrication Procedures
The Mattawa Fire Department would like to thank Monette’s Towing for providing a vehicle that could be used to demonstrate extrication procedures. Firefighters are often called to the scene of motor vehicle accidents and on occasion the vehicle occupants are trapped.
The jaws of life and many other extrication tools assist the firefighters in removing the occupants from the vehicles. Several firefighters demonstrated extrication procedures to open house attendees.
Refreshments
Visitors and volunteers enjoyed coffee and Timbits courtesy of the Mattawa Tim Hortons.
Fire Chief Chad Belanger was the chef for the event. Hot dogs and drinks were served to visitors and volunteers. Many thanks to Huard’s Freshmart for their donation of a portion of the refreshments.
Fire Extinguisher Demonstrations
Ever wonder how difficult it is to use a fire extinguisher? Some attendees were able to find out. A representative from Helyx set up demonstration equipment and, after providing a brief demonstration, gave the fire extinguisher to other volunteers. It is not as easy as it looks!
Water and Ice Rescue Sled
Perhaps it is not widely known, but the Mattawa Fire Department owns a water and ice rescue sled and immersion suits. The equipment was on display at the open house. This equipment was purchased several years ago to assist with ice water rescue should the need occur.
Glenn and Leslie Clarke were able to attend the open house and were recognized for their generous donation towards this equipment (
read more of their story…).
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the children were able to see the gear that the firefighters wear, get into the fire trucks, tour the back of the rescue van, and see the ice water rescue equipment while nice and dry inside the fire hall.
