On Friday 12 August, Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) will be opening its doors for a fun-filled and educational open day at Dee Road Fire Station in Reading.
The open day, which runs from 10.30am to 3pm, will feature several realistic live demonstrations from the crews, including a hot oil pan fire demonstration – which will highlight the very real risk of a kitchen fire – and what should be done in the event that a fire does break out.
There will also be a Road Traffic Collision (RTC) simulation, and it is hoped that RBFRS’ competition rescue team will be there to show off their skills. The team were victorious in the World Rescue Challenge for three years in a row (2011, 2012 and 2013), competing against other firefighters around the world in a series of timed, simulated scenarios.
The day is designed to be highly interactive, and with this in mind, kids and adults will be able to have a go at using firefighters’ hose reels in a session of target practice. RBFRS’ Prevention team will also be present, with interactive games and information on fire safety for the children.
Visitors will have the chance to see some of RBFRS’ vehicles, including the fire engine and the Service’s specialist Heavy Rescue Unit. This vehicle boasts a rear-mounted crane which is capable of heavy lifting. Its capabilities provide an interim urban search and rescue (USAR) capability for the Service, to complement national resilience USAR provision.
The Water and Animal Rescue Unit from the nearby Caversham Road Fire Station will also be on show (subject to availability). The Fire Alpha II Rescue Boat responds to emergencies on the River Thames.
It is hoped that the day will also raise much needed funds for The Fire Fighters Charity, so there will be a selection of goods on sale, as well as donation buckets. Refreshments and hot food will be available to buy.
Please note that no parking is available at the Fire Station site. Spaces may be available on Spey Road and Dee Road, and local bus routes operate nearby.