What's Happening in Williamsburg, VA…

The Williamsburg Fire Department recently held an open house, and the day was a great success.

The department holds an open house every year, and more than 400 people came to the firehouse recently to enjoy a free hot dog, examine a number of the programs the department offers, and find out about fire safety. In addition, they had the chance to try using a firehouse, or sit behind the steering wheel of one of the fire trucks.

Cary Middlebrook is Williamsburg's fire marshall, and says this type of open house is vital in teaching youngsters about fire safety. He adds that many are just learning important lessons such as the classic “stop, drop, and roll.” The open house was held at the end of Fire Prevention Week, which gave the department the chance to present a number of school programs during that period.

In addition, Middlebrook says, it is important that parents know the services available to them through the fire department, such as the fact it will replace smoke detectors free of charge. He also says the department this year is urging people to create a fire escape plan to use in case of an emergency.

Middlebrook is also urging people to check their carbon monoxide and smoke alarms, and to let the department know if they need help of any kind, or if they cannot afford the devices. Flyer printing can help to get messages like this across.