Boys and girls will have the chance to meet a real firefighter and even sit behind the wheel of a firetruck this Saturday.
On May 18, fire stations across St George and Sutherland Shire are rolling up their doors and inviting the community along to see their operations.
The free and fun day from 10am-2pm is part of the annual Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) Open Day.
Stations including Cronulla, Bundeena, Menai, Mortdale and Kogarah will welcome families to meet their community firefighters and check out their firefighting equipment.
From putting out fires to helping out in natural disasters including storms and floods, responding to motor vehicle accidents and animal rescues, the work of a firefighter is diverse and varied.
The day will also be an opportunity to tour a station, watch critical fire safety presentation, and learn about the importance of smoke alarms.
Children will particularly enjoy trying on a hard hat or handling a hose, and having a go at beeping a truck horn.
FRNSW Commissioner, Paul Baxter, says open day is a chance to show people that firefighters do more than fight fires.
"Our firefighters do fight fires and save people from burning buildings, but our mission and our capabilities extend far beyond fire response," he said.
"From road crashes, hazardous material incidents and natural disasters to urban search and rescue and humanitarian relief, our firefighters are prepared for anything and ready to help anyone, anytime, anywhere."
He says the day is also a great time to talk to the experts about home fire safety in the lead up to winter.
"We see a 10 per cent increase in the number of home fires during the winter months, with more fires starting in bedrooms and loungerooms due to things like heaters and electric blankets," he said.
"Come and meet the team that's prepared for anything on open day and learn how to keep your family safe from fire and other emergencies."
