By Alan Gibson, AAP Correspondent

Pennsauken’s Fire Department opened their doors to the public on Aug. 2 to celebrate National Night Out. Firefighters demonstrated the equipment they use every day to keep Pennsauken’s residents safe. Younger township residents even got hands-on experience with the equipment, trying on gear, operating hoses, and watching rescue equipment in action. There was also plenty of ice cream and soft pretzels for everyone.

The first National Night Out was held in 1984, in an effort to promote a partnership between law enforcement and the community, building trust, and increasing public safety. The event has since grown into a larger community-building initiative.

The theme of the night was fire safety. According to Battalion Chief Michael DiSanti, the best thing to do in a fire is to “Get low and get out!” He, as well as other firefighters on hand, stressed the importance of having and practicing an escape plan, having working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and even a fire extinguisher in your home. You don’t need to wait for the fire engine, you can take steps to lower your risk and help you survive a fire.

In addition to keeping our community safe, Pennsauken’s firefighters support fire companies in the surrounding municipalities, provide rescue services on local waterways, and can even respond to hazmat situations should it be necessary. They do more than hose down fires, although for some of the children attending the open houses, the hoses were the best part. Future firefighters may have gotten their start tonight, because who didn’t want to be a firefighter when they were young?