The Blue Ash Fire Department hosts a free open house at its North Fire Station on Tuesday, Oct. 6.

The annual event runs from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at 10647 Kenwood Road and features a live-burn demonstration, hands-on activities for kids and free food. Children can spray a real fire hose, tour the firehouse, tackle an obstacle course of firefighting tasks and meet Sparky the Fire Dog, according to the city's event page. Experienced firefighters will conduct the live-burn demonstration. Free food and drinks will be available while supplies last.

The open house falls during Fire Prevention Week, which runs Oct. 4–10. This year's national theme, Charge Into Fire Safety, is a campaign focused on lithium-ion battery charging safety chosen by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

The NFPA picked the theme for a second consecutive year to address risks from rechargeable batteries in phones, laptops, e-bikes and scooters. Those batteries can overheat, catch fire or explode if damaged or charged incorrectly, the association said. Lorraine Carli, NFPA vice president of outreach and advocacy, said in a June 15 press release that properly charging devices "can significantly reduce the risk of fires and associated hazards."

The department has held the open house at the North Fire Station during Fire Prevention Week for more than a decade. The 2024 edition focused on smoke-alarm safety.

No registration is required. The event is free and open to all ages.

What to know

  • What: Blue Ash Fire Department Open House
  • When: Tuesday, Oct. 6, 5–7:30 p.m.
  • Where: North Fire Station, 10647 Kenwood Road, Blue Ash
  • Cost: Free
  • Details: blueash.com