The doors of the Palos Fire District’s firehouse will be open for more than emergency calls during its annual Open House.
The Palos Fire District will host its annual Open House from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 13 at Station 1, 8815 W. 123rd St. in Palos Park.
The family-friendly event will give residents an opportunity to meet the firefighters and paramedics who serve their community while learning more about fire prevention, emergency preparedness and the services provided by the district.
“Hosting our annual Open House is important because it gives us an opportunity to connect with the community we are proud to serve in a setting outside of an emergency,” Palos Fire Protection District Fire Chief Michael Gabriele said. “It allows our residents and their families to meet their firefighters and paramedics, learn more about the services we provide, and gain valuable knowledge about fire prevention and emergency preparedness.”
The event will offer plenty for families to see and do, including tours of the firehouse and a firefighter obstacle course. Children can dress like firefighters and get a closer look at what it takes to do the job.
Families also can build emergency kits and learn about Knox Boxes, which provide emergency access to buildings for first responders.
Special guests will include representatives from the 100 Club of Chicago, Palos Hospital, Promos 911, Nicor Gas and 1-800-BOARDUP. Palos Hospital nurse Amanda Capuano also will be on hand.
Refreshments will be served, with ice cream, hot dogs, popcorn and more available during the event.
While the activities are designed to make the day fun, Gabriele said the event also serves a larger purpose for the fire district and the community.
“Most importantly, events like this strengthen the trust and relationships between our Fire District and our community,” he said. “We want our residents to know that their firehouse is more than a place we respond from; it is a part of their community, and our doors are always open to them.”
The Open House offers families a chance to experience the firehouse outside of an emergency and gain a better understanding of the people and resources behind the Palos Fire District.