Fire and Rescue NSW stations including Abermain, Bellbird, Branxton-Greta, Cessnock, Kearsley, Kurri Kurri, Paxton and Weston will be open from 10am to 2pm.

Residents are invited to come along and meet local firefighters, with firefighting demonstrations, station tours and fire safety presentations among the free activities on offer on the day.

Children will be able to see the fire engines and firefighting equipment up close – always a highlight of this much-anticipated day – and will also be able to take home a “Brigade Kids” activity booklet.

Firefighters will be on hand to provide advice on installing or replacing smoke alarms and preparing a home fire escape plan.

Cessnock Station Officer Neil Lawler said the open day is a great opportunity to talk to the experts about making homes fire-safe ahead of winter, and also learn about the wide range of tasks that firefighters may be called upon to help with in the community.

“Fire and Rescue NSW firefighters – who are among the most highly trained in the world – do so much more than just fight fires,” Station Officer Lawler said.

“From chemical spills, car accidents and natural disasters to education, prevention and humanitarian relief – across the state, across the country and even overseas – our firefighters are prepared for anything, anywhere, anytime.”

Find an open day near you at www.fire.nsw.gov.au.