If you've ever wondered how firefighters pry open crumpled cars, douse flames or rescue people from great heights, check out the Burnaby Fire Department's open house this Saturday during Fire Prevention Week.
"Everybody is welcome," said Jeff Wilson, one of the organizers for the event.
The event on Oct. 15 runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 4867 Sperling Ave.
Firefighters will show how they rescue people from high places using ropes from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and the "auto extraction" demonstration involving the Jaws of Life, takes place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fire dousing demos are on from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
There will also be a hazardous materi-als team there and a specialist on structural collapse.
Besides the displays, the firefighters are asking people to dig into their closets to help the homeless.
The department is holding a clothing drive, to collect warm winter gear for people sleeping outdoors, in partnership with the Progressive Housing Society, the main group that helps Burnaby's homeless.
Wilson said the firefighters wanted to help following a similar coat drive last year.
"It was quite successful. We accumulated well over 300 jackets on our first attempt," Wilson said.
The timing also coincides with Homelessness Action Week, which is Oct. 10 to 16.
"We're just helping out where we can," Wilson said. "We encourage all to take the time to look in their closets and see if they can pass along some of their clothing."
The department is looking for winter coats, sleeping bags, gloves, toques, long underwear and wool socks.
