On Sunday, October 16th, the Croton-on-Hudson Fire Department's volunteers opened up our doors to the community for our 35th annual "Fire Fair."

Fire Fair is held every year to coincide with National Fire Prevention Week. During the days before and after Fire Fair, our members go out and visit local schools and daycare centers to speak about home fire safety and our annual open house event.

Under a sunny and warm sky, the Harmon Firehouse was packed from start to finish with children and adults, coming together in the name of fire prevention and safety. Attendees got a first-hand view of our apparatus, equipment, members and station - while learning invaluable lessons on the dangers of fire.

Those that came got to experience several "Fire Safety Stations," staffed by CFD members teaching different emergency procedures including Calling 911; Stop, Drop & Roll; Climbing Out a Window, Escaping From a Ladder and developing Exit Drills in The Home (EDITH). As she has done for many years, Mrs. Audrey Dinkler - wife of Mr. Fire Prevention himself, Deputy Chief Tex Dinkler - played the role of "Mrs. Hazard," having visitors learn about dangers that could be found in any home's kitchen. Other Safety Stations were manned by members of our five fire companies and our Explorer Post 2089.

Upon completion of these "Safety Stations," participants earn a ride around the block on one of our three Engine Companies. This always proves to be a hit with both the young and the old! Some opted for the large, inflatable fire truck slide as well.

Refreshments in the way of hot dogs, juice and cookies were donated by ShopRite in Croton, and prepared by members of our Ex-Chiefs Association. For those that were interested, live entertainment was provided by a magician and fire extinguisher demonstrations were put on by Steve Rossi from AAA Emergency Supply in North White Plains. Members of Croton-on-Hudson EMS were also on hand, putting fake bandages on children and handing out plenty of fun gifts.

This event is held every year, rain or shine, at our Harmon Firehouse. We look forward to hosting it again next year - and hope that everyone that attended learned something and had a good time doing it!

Thank you to T. Kaplan and J. Powers for their photos.