Annual Open House

October 16, 2005

 Every year, the New Hackensack holds an annual Open House and opens its doors to the public for a day of fire prevention activities and demonstrations. Along with making all the apparatus and equipment accessible to the public to view, the department held demonstrations on flammable and non-flammable products, provided fire safety education to kids about crawling in smoke and feeling doors for heat with the use of the Dutchess County Fire Safety House, and allowed the kids to try on fire gear and spray water at a target with real fire hose. In addition, kids played educational games like "Race to a Meeting Place" and "Bucket Brigade.  They also received some demonstrations about clothing and household cleaning supplies, and watched a car fire demonstration.  And, of course, Sparky the Fire Dog made an appearance on several occasions to talk to the the kids about fire prevention. The Dutchess County Sheriff was also on hand to provide photo and fingerprint identification cards. Child seat inspections were done throughout the day to ensure the safety of the children and parents learned the proper installation of car seats. To ensure the public is also in compliance with Dutchess County's E-911 Sign Law, members of New Hackensack were also on hand to discuss the sign law and provide residents the opportunity to purchase a sign for $15 through the fire department. Residents of the Fire District were also given the option of having the department come out and install their newly purchased sign on their mailbox. The entire day was completely free of charge, including food and beverages.