Freeport Fire Rescue holding open house

Freeport Fire Rescue is hosting an open house on Wednesday, Oct. 10, from 5-7 p.m., to coincide with National Fire Prevention Week, which runs from Oct. 7-12. During October, Freeport Fire Rescue visits many preschools and high-risk populations to teach lifesaving behaviors through prevention and education. Although Freeport Fire Rescue is an advocate of fire safety year round, the department uses fire prevention week as a reminder for people to check and change batteries at least twice a year in smoke detectors, and to always have two ways out.

The open house will be held at the Freeport Public Safety Building on 4 Main St. There will be live fire demonstrations involving propane, fire extinguisher training, take-home fire safety materials, an opportunity for children to hold and spray water through a fire hose and a smoke house for the kids.

Freeport Fire Rescue sees the open house as an opportunity to recruit new members. Anyone who lives in Freeport, Durham, Pownal or Brunswick and is interested in belonging to Freeport Fire Rescue is urged to attend the open house or stop in to the front office Monday through Friday for an application.

Heating assistance available

Residents of Freeport and Pownal can now apply for the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) at the Freeport Community Center.

LIHEAP provides a once-a-year benefit to cover a portion of the cost of purchasing heating energy, which includes fuel oil, kerosene, electricity, wood and coal. This program gives priority to elderly persons or those who have children under the age of two.

First-time applicants can contact Julie Fraser at 865-3985 ext. 215 for more information, or to set up an appointment. Residents who have already received benefits will have an application mailed to them.