By Ray Pauley
Grand Island Fire Co. Public Information Officer
Grand Island Fire Chief Chris Soluri has announced that a special awards presentation will take place during the scheduled Fire Prevention Open House on Friday, Oct. 13, between 5 and 8 p.m. at fire headquarters.
Three individuals - Keith Dodge, Steve Mallais and Sam Correa - will receive fire prevention commendations for their quick-thinking actions on April 26, when their initial fire suppression efforts at the burning home of a neighbor prevented major property damage.
Meanwhile, Assistant Fire Chief Dan Mathes, program coordinator, has arranged for multi-agency participation, which will include firefighting and emergency medical services displays and demonstrations by the GIFC, Western New York fire service and local law enforcement.
Firefighting and EMS teams will visit Grand Island elementary schools to offer fire safety tips. Sidway Elementary School students will visit fire headquarters on Oct. 3 to gain first-hand knowledge of fire company operations and engage in hands-on safety exercises. Students will also receive entry blanks for the highly anticipated "Ride to School on a Fire Truck" drawing to be held during open house activities.
A live-fire demonstration will also show visitors how firefighters tackle a fast-moving interior structure fire.
The GIFC Ladies Auxiliary will again provide refreshments, including a hot dog and hamburger roast at a nominal cost while conducting their popular basket raffle.
Soluri hopes that as many people as possible will set aside some quality time to meet with their GIFC volunteers and friends.
