CTV News Edmonton has reported:

Stony Plain families got a close-up look at firefighting equipment and learned about fire prevention during an open house at the town’s fire hall on Saturday. The event offered residents a chance to meet firefighters and take part in activities, Fire Chief Jason Nesbitt said.

Visitors could spray a fire hose, meet mascots Grimace and Sparky, and try a kid-sized fire-fit obstacle course designed to show what the job involves. Sage and Devon attended with their three young children, and the event was a hit with the family. Their young son Peyton said he liked the obstacle course.

Nesbitt said the event was intended to help residents understand the fire department’s work and services, learn how to stay safe and prepare for emergencies. “We want folks to have an appreciation of what we do, the services we provide, how to stay safe, and things they can do to help themselves in an emergency as well,” he said. “We love the conversations. We love answering the questions. We have great equipment that we love showing off to the community as well.”

Nesbitt said he still remembers his first fire station tour in kindergarten. “I still remember being in kindergarten, going on my first fire station tour, so being able to give our community that experience … It’s something we love to see.” Asked if he might become a firefighter, Peyton replied: “I don’t know. That’s a dangerous job.” The event included files from CTV News Edmonton’s Curtis Goodrum.