Mastic Fire Department Chemical Company 1 hosted its annual open house in conjunction with National Fire Prevention Week. Attendees learned about fire prevention and fire safety, taking part in demonstrations that got them up close and personal with the equipment used to put out fires.

“They get to feel how heavy the equipment is,” said Joe Tufano, a volunteer firefighter.

Sparky, the department’s mascot, made rounds, taking photos with families. Children were given swag bags with firefighter hats, water bottles, pens, coloring books and more.

Tufano summed up the day’s events: “It’s a day to show the community what we do and how we prepare to make them safe.”