Berlin Fire Company demonstrates vital fire safety techniques during a live reenactment with a burned vehicle, showcasing their commitment to educating the community about emergency response and prevention.
Fire safety is a crucial topic for every household, school, and business, yet it’s often overlooked until an emergency strikes. Fires can spread quickly, cause extensive damage, and pose a significant risk to lives and property. That’s why understanding fire safety, knowing how to respond in an emergency, and practicing preventive measures are all essential to staying safe. To help educate the community on these important topics, the Berlin Fire Company hosted a fun and informative fire safety event on Tuesday, October 1, at the Berlin Community Center.
The event, which ran from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., was designed to educate residents on the importance of fire safety through hands-on experiences and engaging activities. Attendees had the opportunity to participate in various fire safety games and observe live demonstrations, giving them a better understanding of how to respond in the event of a fire emergency.
One of the highlights of the evening was the smokehouse maze. This interactive experience gave participants, including both children and adults, a realistic and safe way to learn how to navigate through a smoke-filled space, simulating the conditions of a real fire. “It’s very important because it teaches people what to do in the event of a fire,” explained Berlin firefighter Rushi Pandya, who has been volunteering his time for 16 years. “When participants enter the smokehouse, they’re greeted by a firefighter who goes over the basics—how to crawl, how to stay low, and what actions to take if there’s a fire. We also discuss the importance of smoke detectors and how they save lives.” The maze was a favorite among the younger attendees, with many children eager to crawl through the artificial smoke more than once, guided by local firefighters.
The event also featured personnel from various organizations, each bringing their unique expertise to support fire safety education. Representatives from Cooper Hospital provided important information on first aid for burns and injuries related to fires, while Berlin Police and Berlin EMS highlighted the role of emergency services in responding to fires. The New Jersey State Forestry Service also attended, sharing valuable information on preventing and managing wildfires, which is especially crucial for communities near wooded areas like Berlin.
Captain Mike Kernan, a firefighter for over 25 years, and Captain Steve Diblasi, who has 17 years of experience, played key roles in organizing this fire safety event and ensuring its success.
A key aspect of fire safety is community collaboration, and this event demonstrated how various organizations can come together for the greater good of community safety. A & F Lawn Care, LLC, and CPR Restoration Services generously provided food and refreshments, creating a welcoming atmosphere that encouraged families to come out, learn, and enjoy the evening together. Their support helped make the event not only informative but also enjoyable for all who attended.
Rushi Pandya also emphasized how residents can get more involved in fire safety efforts at home. “We really push fire safety by educating the kids at schools. We visit all of them, go over fire safety procedures, and send the students home with letters and homework packets. We even give out coloring books with fire safety messages and encourage them to learn how to use a fire extinguisher,” Pandya said. “Our goal is to instill the basics of fire safety at a young age so that it becomes second nature.”
Pandya also stressed the importance of ensuring homes are well-prepared, particularly when it comes to smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. “One of the key fire safety tips I’d like to share is to make sure you’re regularly checking the batteries in your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors,” he said. “We always recommend that when you change your clocks for daylight saving time, you should also change your batteries. It’s a simple step that can make all the difference.”
For families who may need assistance, the fire department is there to help. “If anyone doesn’t have a smoke detector, we can provide one for them—there’s no cost and no judgment. We just want to make sure everyone has what they need to stay safe,” Pandya said.
The dedication of Berlin’s volunteer firefighters was evident throughout the event. These firefighters, who have been serving the community since 1909, not only respond to emergencies but also dedicate their time to educating the public and raising awareness about fire prevention. The impact of Fire Safety Day was clear, as families and children engaged with demonstrations and activities that made learning about fire safety both fun and memorable.
The Berlin Fire Company’s fire safety event was a successful reminder that fire safety is everyone’s responsibility. Knowing what to do in an emergency can make all the difference, and understanding how to prevent fires in the first place is key to keeping our homes and families safe. The event provided valuable insights and resources for local families, ensuring that participants left with a greater awareness of fire safety and the importance of being prepared for the unexpected.
For those who couldn’t attend, it’s never too late to learn about fire safety. Here are some essential fire safety tips to keep in mind:
- Install Smoke Alarms: Smoke alarms are the first line of defense in the event of a fire. Ensure you have smoke alarms installed in every room and test them monthly.
- Practice an Escape Plan: Make sure everyone in your household knows at least two ways out of each room and has a designated meeting place outside.
- Avoid Overloading Electrical Outlets: Overloaded outlets and extension cords can cause electrical fires. Be mindful of your electricity use and avoid connecting too many devices to one outlet.
- Keep Flammable Items Away from Heat Sources: Items such as curtains, bedding, and paper should be kept away from space heaters, candles, and stovetops.
- Be Cautious in the Kitchen: Cooking fires are one of the leading causes of home fires. Never leave cooking food unattended, and keep a fire extinguisher within easy reach.
- Teach Children About Fire Safety: Kids should understand that fire is not a toy and should be taught basic fire safety rules. Participating in community events like this one is a great way to introduce them to these important lessons.
The Berlin Fire Company’s ongoing commitment to fire safety education and their hands-on approach ensures that residents are well-prepared for emergencies, making Berlin a safer place for all. Thanks to the dedication of volunteers like Rushi Pandya, Captain Mike Kernan, and Captain Steve Diblasi, and the support of community partners, Fire Safety Day was not only an educational event but also a community-building experience that reinforced the importance of fire prevention and preparedness.
