Fire Department’s Open House Elicits Thrills & Chills

Some went out of curiosity, others for the freebies, and plenty for the food, but all who attended today’s Open House at the Livingston Fire Department were amazed by the climax of the event: a simulated motor vehicle extrication during which the “Jaws of Life” were used. 

As Fire Chief Chris Mullin provided narration, his team of firefighters showed how they stabilize the vehicles involved in a motor vehicle crash and extricate any victims inside. 

“He’s cutting through the car!” exclaimed 5-year old Justin Brinkman, who was clearly thrilled by the display. 

The firefighters meticulously dismantled two cars during the demonstration, while children and adults alike were riveted by the spectacle.  Livingston is lucky enough to own three sets of the “Jaws Of Life.” 

“I hope I never have to see them used,” murmured Elsie Klein who was visibly nervous during the display.  The firefighters also demonstrated how they mechanically lift a damaged vehicle to get a victim out. 

The Open House included a Fire Safety Trailer from Saint Barnabas which is used to educate people on fire dangers found in the home in a safe, simulated setting.  Tours were conducted through each room to show participants common hazards found inside the average home.  “Sparky The Fire Dog” was also on hand to greet attendees who chowed down on complimentary hot dogs, soup, soda, and water.  Educational handouts, plastic fire helmets, plastic fire badges, and other information was also available. 

During the Open House, the First Aid Squad gave demonstrations of how they take care of the community members in case of emergency.  Children were permitted to enter two of the four Type III ambulances as first responders answered questions regarding types of equipment used and why they practice on mannequins. 

The Open House kicked off Fire Safety Week during which the Fire Department will educate school-aged children from pre-school through the second grade in both public and private schools.  This provides kids with the opportunity to try on actual fire gear and handle tools and equipment so that they’re not afraid of the firefighters if kids are confronted with real emergency situations.  The presentations also provide age-appropriate education on this year’s fire safety campaign which is “Protect Your Family From Fire.” 

After the “Jaws of Life” demonstration, my daughter asked Chief McMullin who cleans up the mess after an accident.  He credited Panek’s Service Station and Livingston Collision with doing a great job with clean-up and fluid removal after a collision. 

The cost of the day’s activities was subsidized by the Livingston Volunteer Fire Department and donations were accepted for the Saint Barnabas Burn Foundation. 

For further information or to ask about general fire questions, please call the Fire Department weekdays between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at (973) 992-2373 or visit www.livingstonnj.org and click on “fire” in the left hand column for the Livingston Fire Department’s information page. 

You can visit the Livingston First Aid Squad’s website at http://www.lfas.org/index.php.