ALLOA Fire Station is opening its doors to the public for an open day on Saturday 23 May from 11am – 2pm.

This free day welcomes locals to enjoy a selection of displays, community safety demonstrations and fun activities run by the local crews and other partner agencies.

Station manager Andy Bennett said that there is something for everyone at the event.

“This open day is a great free family day out. During the day we have a road traffic collision demo, a line rescue demo along with the opportunity to sit in a fire engine. We also have a variety of stalls including face painting, cake and candy and tombola,” he revealed.

“One of our community safety vehicles will also be available and staff will be on hand to give advice about fire safety, answer questions and arrange free home fire safety visits.

“Throughout the day the crew will be running a series of demonstrations to give a taste of what the fire service does. We also have a variety of stalls including face painting, home baking, tombola, bouncy castle and a raffle.

And Mr Bennett said that although enjoying the day was key, the station will also be raising cash for The Fire Fighters Charity.

“While the aim of the day is to have fun, show the inside of a fire station and pass on advice regarding about fire safety, the crew will also be fund-raising for a very special charity –The Fire Fighters Charity,” he added.

“The Fire Fighters Charity is the UK’s leading provider of services that enhance quality of life for serving and retired fire fighters, fire personnel and their families, supporting people in the fire and rescue community when they are in need. Over the years, the charity has helped hundreds of thousands of individuals by providing world-class treatment and support services. It costs £9 million a year to keep the charity running and with no government funding the charity is completely reliant on the generosity of the public.

“Our partners also take part in the day and this year we have representation from Police Scotland, Scottish Ambulance Service and we even have a vintage fire engine. Like us, they have a role in working together for a safer Scotland.” Mr Bennett concluded: “Working in and with local communities is at the heart of how we contribute to improving the safety of people in their homes and when they are out and about. We would love to see as many people from our local community there as possible - come along and join us for a fun family day out.” For information on the charity visit: http://www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/