Where’s the fire? Brandon Fire open house puts public in their boots
Jill Meier/BV Journal
Brandon firefighter Adam Nuese (above) assists Dylan Wilsey with spraying a fire hose.
Jace Hanson dons fire fighting gear to “save a life” at the department’s open house.
Tracy McCulley (above right) put on fire figting gear and took part in rescuing a “dummy” at the Brandon Fire Department’s open house last week.
There’s something to be said for kids and their fondness for fire trucks.
And last week, the Brandon Fire Department opened its doors to the delight of both kids and adults to check out what the all-volunteer organization does, learn more about the equipment they operate and get to know the men and women who step into fire-fighting gear when the need arises.
Chief Robert Dykstra said last week’s open house was all about education and recruiting new volunteers to the department. Dykstra said the department currently has room for 17, and five are now in the process of joining the department.
“We’re hoping,” Dykstra said. “Even if it’s one or two, it’s a win, but it’s still a way to educate and get the community to understand more about what we do.”
Those who took in the open house had the chance to climb behind the wheel of fire trucks, put on firefighting gear, spray hoses and enjoy a free hotdog or two.
“If anyone ever has any questions about the fire department, regardless if it’s about fireworks, burning, what do we do, what type of calls we go on, we’re always available to answer them,” he said.
Planning a party without a defined guest list can present challenges if more people show up than anticipated.
“We’re guessing on this first one, so our best-case scenario is we run out of food,” Dykstra said.
That best-case scenario came to fruition, constituting a trip back to the local grocery store for more hotdogs, buns and more.
“This is a great way for us to meet the community,” Dykstra said. “We had our spring fundraiser back in March-April, we alternate, we have our pancake breakfast in October, so this is midway, and again, it’s nice weather typically in June before it gets too busy.”
Along with demonstrations, hands-on activities and free food, the Brandon Fire Department also gave away a variety of door prizes.
“Obviously, we’re thinking safety,” Dykstra said. “Detectors, fire extinguishers, we had a local establishment donate some gift certificates and then we have a little bike with the fire theme and the fire bike helmet.”
The bike and helmet went to a “future fire fighter” by the name of Brody.
