Benicia Fire Department Open House Draws 2,000 Attendees Today
UPDATE: The Benicia Fire Department captivated approximately 2,000 attendees today at its annual open house, part of National Fire Prevention Week. Families flocked to the event off Military West, eager to learn about fire safety and explore career opportunities in emergency services.
The excitement was palpable as children, such as 8-year-old Max Kettrick, faced their fears head-on. Max participated in a live fire demonstration, showcasing his skills with a fire extinguisher. “I think I showed a lot of bravery,” he said. His father, Spencer Kettrick, noted that this event has become Max’s “highlight of the year.”
According to the department’s Public Information Officer, Della Olm, the open house aims to educate the community on fire safety while making it enjoyable for kids. “One of our biggest goals is to have kids run toward a firefighter in an emergency,” Olm explained. “We want to ensure they feel safe and know we are there to help.”
Children enjoyed various attractions, including a bounce house and the opportunity to explore a fire truck, a Medic Ambulance, and a Sheriff Emergency Response vehicle. All participants received free plastic fire helmets, crayons, and coloring books.
This year’s event also featured demonstrations from the Benicia Police Department and Medic Ambulance, providing vital information on emergency response careers. “It’s a great way to get a lot of agencies together,” Olm remarked, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the day.
Fire Captain Vince Parga shared his appreciation for community engagement. “It’s not about the thanks we receive; it’s about how we can best serve the community,” he stated, emphasizing that many attendees were curious about the equipment and lifestyle of firefighters.
The event also served as a nostalgic reminder for firefighters like Sean Close, who reflected on his childhood experiences at similar gatherings. “I always regretted not using the fire hose when I was a kid,” he said, now thrilled to inspire the next generation.
The challenges facing California firefighters are significant, with eight of the ten largest fires in state history occurring since 2018. The Benicia Fire Department currently employs 30 firefighters but plans to expand its team soon, anticipating retirements.
As the day wrapped up, attendees expressed gratitude for the valuable lessons learned. Jessica Schneider-McLennan attended with her daughter, Jaeleen, who was eager to dive into the fire safety experience. “This event is very encouraging. My daughter may learn something that can save my own life someday,” she noted.
The Benicia Fire Department’s open house not only educated the community but also strengthened the bond between emergency responders and the families they serve. As families left with smiles and new knowledge, the department reaffirmed its commitment to safety and service.
Stay tuned for more updates on community events and initiatives from the Benicia Fire Department and other local agencies.
