Day a chance to see behind the scenes

FIRE DEMONSTRATION: A portable kitchen will be set on fire at the open day, to show people how quickly fire can spread.

For a behind-the-scenes look into emergency and volunteer services you won’t want to miss their big open day this Sunday.

From 10am to 4pm at the Telstra Clear Events Centre in Manukau, there will be loads of interesting and interactive displays from emergency services, including jaws of life demonstrations, and a portable house being set on fire.

Assistant area commander for Counties Manukau Fire Service Andy Clarkson says the free open day is a good opportunity for community organisations to join forces and show the public what really goes on in an emergency situation.

"It’s about raising awareness of safety. It’s also a chance for all the volunteer services and emergency services to showcase what they do."

Hosted by the New Zealand Fire Service, the open day will be attended by organisations such as the New Zealand police, St John Ambulance, Westpac Rescue Helicopter, Royal New Zealand Air Force and army and navy officers. Volunteer organisations including the Red Cross, SPCA, Salvation Army, Youthline, Lifeline and the Cancer Society will also be there.

Auckland senior fire risk management officer George Stephens says people should go along because it’s a fun yet educational day.

"The volunteers to the New Zealand Fire Service and other services are vitally important. They are unpaid and give a lot of their time towards making their communities safer," he says.

- © Fairfax NZ News