| Saturday, October 8, 2011 was Lisbon Volunteer Fire Company's most successful Open House ever. With over 175 children and adults participating, it was the largest turnout for this annual event. Talking with our guests as they arrived, we learned that Lisbon's event was attracting visitors from all over Howard County, as well as neighboring Counties of Carroll, Frederick and Montgomery.
The Open House began at 10AM with a spectacular landing of Maryland State Police's helicopter 3 (Trooper 3). Once on the ground, Open House guests had an opportunity to ask the Pilot and Policeman/Paramedic questions about this life saving aircraft as well as see the onboard equipment, up close and personal.
Also outside of the building, guests were able to take a tour of the new Mass-casualty Ambulance Bus, recently acquired by Howard County. The medical ambulance bus is one of two in the state and 20 nationwide and can handle 14 patients on stretchers or 26 seated passengers. It also can transport patients who use wheelchairs. Additionally, in the outside area was Lisbon's reserve ambulance. Inside the ambulance, a member of the Lisbon volunteer medical team helped children understand how patients are tended by treating their own teddy bears, bandaging or splinting "pretend injuries". The children learned that the ambulance is there to help and will offer comfort of a positive experience in the event a real injury requires them to take a trip to the local hospital.
Inside the social hall, more fun and learning opportunities abounded. In addition to our annual "Stop-Drop-Roll," where kids learned what to do if they are faced with smoke in the house or smoldering clothes, our "dress like a fireman" and take home photos were a great hit. A new item the year was our "This – NOT This" table provided a number of every day examples that help children understand how to be safe around the home.
Another exciting display at this year's Open House was the display of Lisbon's rendition of the new Lisbon Fire Company facility to be located on the northwest corner of the intersection of Rt. 144 and 94. Visitors were happy to see the progress to date and donated over $150 towards the building fund. While our visitors ambled around the facility, they were treated to some afternoon snacks prepared by the Town Grill.
The Open House ran from 10AM until 2PM with visitors active through the entire event. The members of the Lisbon Volunteer Fire Co. want to thank everyone that attended for making this year's event the best ever! We look forward to seeing you all again, next year. |
