Now that View Royal’s new public safety building has been up and running a few months and all systems are go, the public is invited to come down and check it out.
Members of the volunteer fire department and the town’s emergency management team host a pair of events this weekend.
Tomorrow’s event (June 13) will see dignitaries ranging from Mayor David Screech and former mayor Graham Hill to Fire Chief Paul Hurst and others, all joining forces to cut the ribbon and officially open the building.
On Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., it’s the annual open house for all members of the family.
“We’re really exited,” says department spokesperson Lt. Rob Marshall. “I’m just thrilled to get the kids up here, although we have already had some tours from the local preschools.”
Kids and adults alike can see volunteer firefighters demonstrate the variety of equipment on site, which allows them to practise skills like fire suppression, aerial ladder extensions and rappelling off the top of the hose tower. Firefighters previously had to practise some skills in less ideally suited places in the community.
The kids are also encouraged to get in there and try their hand at shooting hoses and doing other activities like the big guys, as part of the nine-station Junior Firefighter program.
There will also be truck rides around the neighbourhood and hot dogs for lunch, courtesy of Quality Foods.
With parking extremely limited, it’s recommended to find a different way to the hall, at 333 Island Hwy.