Annual Fire Station Open House is Oct. 12

AMES, Iowa - The Ames Fire Department will host its annual Fire Station Open House from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Oct. 12, at Fire Station No. 1, 1300 Burnett Ave. Individuals with autism, modified needs, or disabilities, along with their families, are invited to attend a modified open house from 8 to 9 a.m.

Participants can explore fire trucks, see Sparky the Fire Dog and Freddie the Fire Truck, tour the fire station, and learn more about fire safety as part of Fire Prevention Week (Oct. 6 - 12). This free, fun, and informative event is great for all ages.

This year's theme for Fire Prevention Week is "Smoke Alarms: Make them work for you!"

"Smoke alarms are important to detect fires as early as possible," said Fire Chief Rich Higgins. "To make sure they are working effectively, test your smoke alarms regularly and replace the batteries as needed."

In October, Ames firefighters will be visiting all Ames elementary schools to deliver fire prevention information and materials. Also, they will be holding a coloring contest for second graders with the winner receiving an Ames Fire T-shirt and a ride to school on a fire truck.

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