What Can West Bloomfield Fire Department Do For You?

From handling a fire hose to escaping from a smoke-filled house, West Bloomfield Township kids will have many opportunities for hands-on fun during Sunday's Fire Department open house. 

But the event will also make residents more aware of everything the department has to offer. 

Held at Fire Station No. 5, 5425 W. Maple Rd., the event has for years been held during National Fire Prevention Week, Fire Marshal Pat Riney said. 

"A lot of people like the big, shiny, red trucks," he said, "but there's a whole lot more to the Fire Department than big, shiny red trucks."

For instance, he said, residents who attend will be able to schedule a safety check for an infant or child car seat. Other activities will include:

• a simulated 911 dispatch booth
• fire station tours
• live fire extinguisher training
• hazardous materials and technical rescue displays
• helicopter landing
• visits with representatives from Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital