An open house at the Soboba Fire Station on Oct. 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. gave community members an opportunity to see firsthand what the department does to keep them safe. It was also used to highlight Fire Prevention Week that is a nationally observed event each October.
More than 200 visitors experienced a live fire extinguisher training, watched an auto extrication demonstration and viewed fire apparatus and emergency preparedness displays. There was plenty of fire prevention information on hand and staff members were on hand to answer any questions about the firefighting services. There was a face painting booth and balloons for children, and everyone enjoyed a BBQ lunch.
Fire Chief Glenn Patterson said they were pleased with the great turnout for the annual event they host each October to showcase the department.
During Fire Prevention Week, brave firefighters and first responders who risk their lives to protect us every day are honored. The week is also used to reaffirm the importance of fire safety and preparedness. Fire Prevention Week is observed each year during the week of October 9th in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire, which began on October 8, 1871, and caused devastating damage. This horrific conflagration killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures, and burned more than 2,000 acres of land.
Continuing with its strong support for the community, three members of the department attended the Soboba Tribal Preschool’s annual Trunk or Treat event on Oct. 29 at the Soboba Sports Complex. Derek Brumbaugh, Brian Merrill and Don Pursley handed out lots of candy to all the kids who stopped by their booth, set up next to one of the fire engines.
“It was nice to see so many community members engaged with our open house. It was geared to all ages, and all doors were open for them to tour the station,” said Engineer Merrill, adding that they stayed busy at the barbecue cooking hamburgers and hot dogs for everyone.
Firefighter Brumbaugh said he had extended family members visit and enjoyed showing them around. He also said many people commented on how clean the station was, which was a nice compliment to receive.
Find helpful tips on fire safety at https://fire.soboba-nsn.gov.
