Murrieta Fire Department Draws Crowds for Open House

The Murrieta Fire Department held an open house from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Fire Station No. 2, located on the corner of California Oaks Road and Hancock Avenue. Local residents and passersby gathered at the station that displayed one engine and one brush truck outside the station’s garage doors.

The event is in conjunction with National Fire Prevention Week and the nonprofit organization National Fire Protection Association.

According to the NFPA’s website, "The mission of the international nonprofit NFPA, established in 1896, is to reduce the worldwide burden of fire and other hazards on the quality of life by providing and advocating consensus codes and standards, research, training, and education." In addition to Fire Prevention Week (Oct. 6-12), this year’s theme is "Prevent Kitchen Fires."

The Murrieta Fire Department’s Explorer Post 630 was on hand with roughly 15 explorers demonstrating fire safety, what to do in the event of a fire in your home, as well as passing out fire safety material.

Murrieta Fire Chief Matt Shobert drew the kids with his Dalmatian, Butters, who was on hand to greet guests. Butters also gave a demonstration on how to "stop, drop and roll."

Firefighters gave tours of the station and engines and welcomed the public to stop by throughout the day. Free hot dogs, snacks, and drinks were also given out to guests and several bounce houses and activities were available for kids.

For more information on National Fire Prevention Week and NFPA, visit www.nfpa.org