Fire stations host open houses on Saturday

Explore a fire truck, teach your kids about fire safety, and meet Hector the Smoke Detector and Sparky the Fire Dog this Saturday, Oct. 11, at the Annandale Volunteer Fire Department’s Open House.

All Fairfax County fire stations are hosting an open house on Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., as part of National Fire Prevention Week. This year’s theme is all about the safe use of lithium-ion batteries.

The Fairfax 1 helicopter is scheduled to land behind the Annandale Fire Station, 7128 Columbia Pike, between noon and 1 p.m., weather permitting.

Visitors will also have a chance to meet a firefighter and emergency medical technician, explore firefighting equipment, view fire and rescue demonstrations, get a free blood pressure screening, take part in other activities and games, and have a snack.

While you’re at the open house, drop by the Mason District Arts Festival next door, at the Eileen Garnett Civic Space.

The Bailey’s Crossroads Volunteer Fire Department, at 3601 Firehouse Lane, has scheduled fire truck tours and activities on Saturday.

The other fire stations serving the Mason District area are also having an open house on Oct. 11, including the West Annandale (Little River Turnpike), Fort Buffalo (Sleepy Hollow Road, Seven Corners), Jefferson (Falls Church), and Edsall Road (Springfield) fire stations.