Photos: Fire Prevention In Plainview's Spotlight

The Plainview Fire Department opened up its home to hundreds of area residents Sunday, mixing fun and entertainment with the serious business of fire prevention.

Plainview Fire Chief Craig Robinson said he was thrilled by the turnout at the department's headquarters on Old Country Road. It was timed to October, known as "Fire Prevention Month."

Young people, some in "turnout gear," were treated to seats in the cab of fire engines and an opportunity to escape from a smoke condition simulated in a special "smoke house."

But the entire assembly got to witness a close-up view of a firefighter's regular routine. Firefighters demonstrated how they cut victims from an "accident" scene, set up on the rear tarmac of the firehouse. Some of the firefighters set an SUV ablaze. Then, donning Scott airpacks and bunker gear, put down the inferno to the delight of the crowd.

The department distributed toys and fire prevention coloring books, balloons and other accessories.

It is also an opportunity for the public to see Plainview's modern firefighting apparatus up close and meet the men and women who protect the community around the clock and all year round.

The photos attached here tell the rest of the story.

Tomorrow, we'll have another package of photos from the open house which demonstrate how quickly a fire can spread.