Brookhaven, NY — The Brookhaven Fire Department welcomed over 100 community members to its 2024 Open House on October 4, showcasing a variety of fire safety demonstrations, cutting-edge equipment, and community outreach activities aimed at educating residents on fire prevention and safety. The event featured hands-on presentations by firefighters, interactive exhibits, and special guests, making it a family-friendly experience with a serious focus on safety.

Throughout the event, Brookhaven’s firefighters demonstrated essential fire safety techniques using a range of equipment, including the department’s fire apparatus on display. Among the demonstrations was the use of the department’s drone, which firefighters explained assists in various fire operations by providing aerial views that help locate hot spots and assess fire spread in real-time.

One of the event’s highlights was a kitchen safety demonstration, which emphasized the dos and don’ts when handling kitchen fires, such as those caused by pots on the stove or oven fires. Firefighters showed proper techniques for extinguishing these flames, stressing the importance of acting swiftly and safely in these situations.

The department also held a vehicle extrication demonstration, in which firefighters showcased how they rescue individuals trapped in vehicles following serious car accidents. Using specialized equipment, they simulated a real-life scenario, explaining each step in their response to help attendees understand the tools and skills needed to safely remove occupants.

In a newer addition to the event, the firefighters highlighted the dangers posed by lithium-ion batteries, which are increasingly found in households. They demonstrated how these batteries, often used in devices like laptops and e-bikes, can catch fire and rapidly spread flames through a room or home if not properly managed.

Special guests included Suffolk Fire Marshal K9 Chuck and handler Ryan, who presented an accelerant detection demonstration, showing how K9 units aid in identifying accelerants during fire investigations. Members of Suffolk Fire Rescue also joined, bringing some of their vehicles and offering fire safety literature and giveaways.

Community organization Helping Makes You Happy contributed to the event’s festive atmosphere by donating hundreds of Halloween costumes for both children and adults. The costume giveaway not only got attendees in the Halloween spirit but also supported those in need by providing costumes for families unable to afford them.

The Brookhaven Fire Department’s Open House served as both an educational experience and a reminder of the importance of fire safety. Attendees left with valuable insights and resources, reinforcing the department's dedication to safeguarding the community.