West Hempfield Fire & Rescue (WHFR), 3476 Marietta Ave., Lancaster, will host an open house from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 15. The free community event will feature demonstrations from firefighters and police officers, interactive activities for children and information about general fire safety, as well as vendors and food trucks. A rain date has been set for Sunday, Sept. 29.

Food, drinks and desserts will be available to purchase from food trucks, including Spud Muffin, Lori's Lattes, Munchiez, Drifters, Softie Whirl and Pappy's BBQ. Vendors such as Hess Woodwork, Division Sports, Tastefully Simple and Kendra's Kraft Corner will sell a variety of items, including custom-made apparel, jewelry, artwork, hair tinsel and 3D printed creations.

Children will have an opportunity to make crafts at a coloring station, and firefighters will allow kids to take a close-up look at fire engines and try on safety equipment. WHFR personnel will also offer an interactive safety demonstration in the smoke trailer; participants will learn how to safely exit a burning building and avoid smoke inhalation during a simulated house fire in the trailer. An additional demonstration will be offered by members of a police K-9 unit.

Tara Ney, who manages public relations for WHFR, said the main goals of the event include familiarizing children with fire safety protocol and giving them the tools and information necessary to navigate emergency situations. "My youngest is going into fourth grade, and I was surprised to hear how many kids are afraid of certain kinds of equipment," Ney added. "That's why we want them to be able to try on face masks and other gear so they don't look scary. Ultimately, we want everyone to know what to expect in these situations and what to do."

Ney said the other goal of hosting an open house is to engage the community and share information about the work WHFR does in the area. Although the event will be free to attend, the organization will receive donations to help cover the cost of its equipment and general operating expenses. "On average, a firefighter's gear from head to toe costs anywhere from $10,000 to $12,000. The jaws of life can cost up to $10,000 for a single one," Ney said. "Like everything else in the world, prices of equipment have gone up, so we're hoping to do more community events and to make sure our members are protected."

WHFR is always accepting adult volunteers and junior members, who are able to sign up once they turn 14 years old. Individuals interested in volunteering will have an opportunity to walk around the fire station and learn more about firefighters' duties from WHFR members during the open house.

For more information, visit http://www.westhempfieldfire.com.