Maitland residents took the opportunity to visit their local volunteer fire brigade as part of the NSW Rural Fire Service open days.
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Fire stations at Thornton, Bolwarra-Largs, Lochinvar, Vacy and Greta opened their doors to the public on Saturday and Sunday as part of a statewide effort to help people learn how to be prepared in the event of a bushfire.
Staff helped visitors create bushfire survival plans and there were fire truck demonstrations that showed the use of fire hoses, extinguishers and fire blankets.
There were also smoke alarm demonstrations and children’s activities.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services Stuart Ayres said it was an ideal opportunity for families to meet the volunteers who protect their community.
“The NSW Rural Fire Service Open Day is about connecting with communities and helping people prepare themselves, their families and their properties for bushfires,” he said.
NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said people would learn valuable, potentially life-saving information.
“It’s a chance for people to pick up important tips about fire safety, so they can prepare their home and their family for bushfires ahead of the upcoming season.”
The NSW RFS is the world’s largest volunteer firefighting agency with more than 74,000 volunteers.
More than 300 brigades opened their doors across the state during the weekend.
