Fire Prevention Week: Open House Scheduled In South Brunswick Saturday

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ — The Monmouth Junction Volunteer Fire Department will be hosting an open house on Saturday to spread awareness of fire safety during Fire Prevention Week.

The open house will be held from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the main fire station, 573 Ridge Road, Monmouth Junction.

Fire safety displays and demonstrations by firefighters have been planned. Attendees can also examine and explore the fire trucks. There will be complimentary snacks and drinks.

“We challenge attendees to test their knowledge and skills of fire safety by participating in a scavenger hunt around our fire station,” Fire Chief Scott Smith said.

“Everyone will be tasked with finding the answers to questions, demonstrating skills, and learning from mistakes made by others while having fun along the way.”

Participants will be rewarded with prizes for correct answers during the hunt.

The National Fire Prevention Association is celebrating the 100th anniversary of Fire Prevention Week this year.

This year’s campaign, “Fire won’t wait. Plan your escape,” hopes to educate everyone about simple and important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe from home fires.

Fire prevention week has been observed since 1922, and in 1925, President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed Fire Prevention Week a national observance.

Fire Prevention Week is observed each year during the week of Oct. 9 in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire of Oct. 8, 1871, which killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 homeless and destroyed more than 17,400 structures.

Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com