FireFest organizers display a New York Fire Department truck that was part of the response to the 9-11 terror attacks. The truck is part of the 4th Annual FireFest in downtown Chatham. (Photo by Mike James)FireFest organizers display a New York Fire Department truck that was part of the response to the 9-11 terror attacks. The truck is part of the 4th Annual FireFest in downtown Chatham. (Photo by Mike James)
Chatham

FireFest Provides Teaching Opportunity

Chatham-Kent's fire-paramedic chief says the annual FireFest display allows them to show off the evolution of their service.

Ken Stuebing says the event is a big deal for his members. "The fact that we have a group of people who want to celebrate the history of the fire service right here in our home community is really an opportunity for our teams to feel good about what we do and to bring their families out to see a little about what they do," says Stuebing. He adds that the event is also a great opportunity to educate the public on how to avoid tragedy or respond to it in the case of an emergency.

This year's event will feature a truck pull competition and Stuebing says don't be surprised if you see teams from the local police and fire service go head-to-head. Guest speaker honours go to Jeremy Collins, who is a Boston area firefighter who played a role in the search for the marathon bombing suspects. He also was a contestant on last season's Survivor TV show.

FireFest details were unveilled earlier this week, with the event being held the third weekend in September.

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