Crowds of people packed the halls of the Glendale Fire Station No. 21 Saturday for family fun, education and a chance to better know their fire department.
The scene was the department's Centennial Fire Service Day, and the department went all out to let people know what it is all about.
"It's kind of like an open house, we're trying to let the community see who we are and what we do, Glendale Fire Capt. Tom Propst said.
The event closed off part of Columbus Avenue, leaving an open area with several fire engines on display. Children got a chance to climb on engines and experience the point of view of a firefighter.
Along with fire officials, members of the Glendale Police Department, Park Rangers, American Red Cross and many others were on hand to show residents what is available in their community.
"It's very informative," said Glendale resident Caroline Najarian. "I think it's a great event, especially for the kids."
One of the event's educational programs targeted toward children was a fire hazard simulation brought by the Children's Burn Foundation. The foundation had brought out a trailer, with a makeshift kitchen and bedroom inside.
When children entered, they got an interactive lesson on fire hazards in the home as well as how to react if a fire breaks out.
"This is a chance to teach kids about hazards inside the household," said Keely Quinn, program development director for the foundation. "It's also really important for parents since they can see what their kids know and don't know about fires."
This fire education program is featured frequently at schools around the area, Quinn said.
Another important educational outreach program represented Friday was the Glendale Fire Department's Community Emergency Response Team, which teaches members of the community to be prepared for emergency situations.
"We prepare the community for disasters by teaching basic medical procedures and a lot of simulation," said Amanda Avila, one of the program's instructors.
She passed out information and signed people up for the program Saturday.
For the many children who came out to the event, there was no shortage of activities.
Youths had chances to shoot water from a fire hose, play with animals — courtesy of the city Park Rangers — and even get a look at a police helicopter.
"I had fun because I like firemen and I really like seeing the firetrucks," said Keighley Pinchbeck, 7, of Glendale.
While the community enjoyed the attractions, several fire department officials cooked flapjacks for the event's pancake breakfast.
One of those on the grill was Glendale Fire Chief Christopher Gray.
"Today we had a nice response from the community to come and see their local fire department," Gray said. "Hopefully they can learn a little more about us and have a chance to see who the firefighters are and what we do."
