The members of the Guilderland Fire Department are once again preparing for their annual open house, which is being held this year on Oct. 3. The hours will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., rain or shine.

The firehouse is located at 2303 Western Ave. and Willow Street. The dedication will be held at 1 p.m. at the station. The public is invited to both events.

Oct. 5 to 11 is Fire Prevention Week. Many teachers will call on their local fire departments to sponsor a visit to their classrooms where any number of fire-prevention and safety activities can be demonstrated by the volunteer firefighters. They will usually bring a fire truck for tours.

Our goal at the Guilderland Fire Department is to educate the children and make them the teachers in their homes so that the parents will be encouraged to perform the necessary chores that are required this time of year, that is:

— To check and change the smoke detector batteries and to make sure that they are installed in the home; and

— To practice home fire drills and have a safe place to meet outside. Staying low in smoke conditions and “get out, stay out’ is also good practice.

The children will be able to save “George’s house” by spraying a real fire hose on it. The Bullex fire suppression system will be set up so everyone can practice using a fire extinguisher.

Do you know your PASS? Pull, Aim, Squeeze and Sweep! You will need that in order to extinguish the fire.

 There will also be door prizes, lots of fire-prevention materials, games to win prizes, and a bouncy house. And, as always, there will be refreshments and food — and the event is free to the public.

Fire prevention and safety is serious business. But it can be fun to get involved.  Everyone should have a general knowledge of what to do in a fire or smoke condition emergency. You are never to young or old to learn and practice fire safety. Use 911 for all emergencies.

Call your local fire department or visit it online to see when and where it will be hosting its open house this year. Give your child the chance to teach you about fire prevention and safety.

We are planning on a big event again this year. We will be visiting the Guilderland Elementary and Lynnwood Elementary schools to invite them to the open house.

The town of Guilderland has all volunteer fire fighting departments. If you have time and a desire to help your neighbor, give them a call.

Chuck Meyers

Guilderland Fire Department