East Pierce Fire and Rescue invites the public to join them for their 20th annual Open House, from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, September 28 at the East Pierce headquarters station at 18421 Veterans Memorial Drive East, in Bonney Lake. The free health and safety fair will include booths with public safety partners including the Bonney Lake Police, Sumner Police and Pierce County Sheriff’s Departments, plus many more.
The annual Open House showcases programs and services provided by East Pierce Fire and Rescue, including demonstrations by the fire department’s special operations teams, which include Technical Rescue, Wildland, HazMat and Water Rescue.
Parents and children can test their fire safety knowledge and watch demonstrations of various rescue equipment. Live demonstrations are scheduled throughout the event featuring the use of tools, such as the “Jaws of Life”.
“The highlight every year for most kids is the chance to play firefighter,” East Pierce Lieutenant Eric McLeroy said.
Young children suit up in pint-size firefighter gear to put out a “fire” and perform a “rescue.” Older children are offered a more challenging course, shooting water from a hose at a target and performing a “rescue”.
A medical helicopter from Airlift Northwest is scheduled to land around 1:30 p.m. Those interested will get an up close look at the helicopter and a chance to chat with the crew.
Ice cream, popcorn and cotton candy will be available from the International Association of Firefighters, Local 3520. East Pierce firefighters will be selling life jackets, bike helmets and multi-sport helmets at discounted prices. All purchases include a custom fit. Children and adult sizes will be available on a first come, first served basis. Flu shots will be offered for $25.00. Other interactive demonstrations and booths include:
• 9-1-1 Simulator
• Operation Lifesaver’s Train Simulator
• Washington State Fire Marshal’s Residential Fire Sprinkler Demonstration Trailer
• K-9 Unit demonstrations
• Face painting and balloon animals
• Home Depot Kids Workshop
• Hands-only CPR Instruction
• Fire Safety Trailer
• Antique Engine Display
• Pierce County Firefighters Pipes and Drums
• Spot-the-Tot Demonstration
• Citizen Bucket Brigade
• East Pierce Fire and Rescue Foundation
Free parking is available at the Pierce Transit Park and Ride at 184th Avenue East, off state Route 410 East. A dedicated shuttle will run to and from the East Pierce headquarters station during the event.
