Strong Turnout At DHFD Open House

This past Sunday the Dix Hills Fire Department kicked off National Fire Prevention Week with an eventful and educational fire prevention and safety day for the community to enjoy. Approximately 750 residents attended the free event, which was held at fire department headquarters on East Deer Park Road.

The open house featured lively demonstrations, including vehicle extrication, fire extinguishment, emergency escape and bailout demos, “Clinic Kids” EMS for dolls and teddy bears, as well as a the NY Masonic Safety ID (MSID) Program that provided families with child identification materials to be used if an emergency occurred. Close to 100 children registered at the child ID booth.

“Despite the weather, the turnout was even better than last year’s open house,” said Richard Granahan, Dix Hills’ chief of department. “The guests seemed very pleased with the activities, and there were many lessons to be learned. Our firefighters conducted safety exercises such as stop, drop and roll, and our EMT’s provided first aid and emergency treatment tips.”

The Suffolk County Police Department displayed its crime scene unit and an emergency service truck. Police officers also presented one of their K9’s named Koda, which was a huge hit. 

In addition, the open house featured firehouse tours, blood pressure checks, and a canned food drive.

“We were able to collect seven boxes of food as well as monetary donations. Every year, the Dix Hills Fire Department supports food drives, and this collection will go specifically to the non-profit hunger relief organization, RockCanRoll, which distributes to local agencies,” said Robert Fling, assistant chief.