Date: Saturday, July 7, 2012
Time: 11am -5pm
Location: Occidental Square Park, Pioneer Square (South Main Street between 1st Avenue and 2nd Avenue South).
Photo Opportunity: View the latest Seattle Fire Equipment and historic fire engines.
The Fire Festival celebrates the re-birth of Pioneer Square after the Great Seattle Fire of June 6, 1889. The fire destroyed 120 acres or 25 city blocks and caused an estimated $20 million in damage. It was ruled as the most devastating fire ever to hit Seattle and led to the birth of the modern day Seattle Fire Department.
The Pioneer Square Fire Festival gives attendees of all ages a glimpse into Seattle’s past. Displays include antique and classic fire engines, classic police cars, a gold mining demonstration, and other family-friendly activities. Kids can learn how to put on firefighter turnout gear or color a picture while sitting in the back of a 1940’s fire engine.
New this year, the Seattle Fire Department Public Education Unit will set up a home fire evacuation obstacle course. The demonstration teaches children how to crawl low below the smoke and heat as well as how to get out and stay out if they experience a home fire. Kids will also learn to choose an outdoor meeting place with their family and at that meeting place, how to call 9-1-1 and give emergency dispatchers important information they need to provide help.
Also appearing for the first time, the Monroe Fire Department is bringing “Pluggie” the talking fire hydrant who will teach children about Fire Safety. Smokey Bear will also be on hand to greet the kids.
Located one to two blocks away from Occidental Square Park are: the Last Resort Fire Department Museum, located in Seattle Fire Department Headquarters; the Seattle Metropolitan Police Museum located in a historic building; and the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park – Seattle, located in the restored Cadillac Hotel. All three museums have activities for kids, and they will be open and free to the public on the day of the Fire Festival.
For more information visit http://www.lastresortfd.org/Fire_Festival-09.htm.
