Firefighters are encouraging people to visit either the Kelso or Bathurst Fire Station for Fire and Rescue NSW’s annual open day being held on Saturday, May 20, between 10am and 2pm.

A range of free activities will be on offer, including firefighting demonstrations, station tours and fire safety presentations. Firefighters will also be able to provide advice on installing or replacing smoke alarms, and preparing a home fire escape plan.

The day will also give children the opportunity to see fire engines and firefighting equipment up close, which is always a highlight of the day.

They will also be able to take home a ‘Brigade Kids’ activity booklet, which teaches then vital safety lessons.

As part of the open day, firefighters will focus on fire prevention in the kitchen, urging people to “keep looking when cooking.”

Station Commander Sandy Collins said almost half of all house fires start in the kitchen.

“Usually when people are distracted and don’t keep an eye on the stove top,” he said.

With winter coming Station Commander Collins said the open day is also a great time to talk about replacing smoke alarms and fire escape plans.

He said with improvements in technology firefighters are encouraging residents to replace any out dated alarms with 10-year, lithium-powered photoelectric smoke alarms.

“Come along and talk to firefighters on open day about how to reduce the risk of fire in your home,”he said.