Fire stations open doors to the public

Charles County volunteer fire/EMS departments will open their doors to the public for Fire Prevention Week — though some will be later in the month — to offer demonstrations, tours of the stations and wonderful fire safety information to include the new “smoke alarm” laws in Maryland, according to a news release.

Recruitment opportunities are also available to all residents who are willing to “give back some time” to their communities. All membership training is free. Available opportunities include: operational firefighters, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, administrative support, emergency vehicle drivers, ladies auxiliary, junior cadets and more, according to the release.

The following volunteer departments will have specific plans and ask citizens in their area to stop by and visit:

• Hughesville Volunteer Fire Department and EMS, 15245 Prince Frederick Road, Hughesville, Saturday, Oct. 13, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

• Indian Head Volunteer Fire Department and EMS, 4095 Indian Head Highway, Indian Head, Saturday, Oct. 13, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• Bryans Road Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad, 3099 Livingston Road, Bryans Road, Saturday, Oct. 13, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department and EMS, 7000 St. Florian Drive, St. Charles, Sunday, Oct. 14, beginning at noon.

• La Plata Volunteer Fire Department, 911 Washington Ave., La Plata, Sunday, Oct. 14, from noon to 4 p.m.

• Benedict Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad, 18210 Hyatt Ave., Benedict, Sunday, Oct. 28, during the annual Halloween Party.

• Cobb Island Volunteer Fire Department and EMS, 17069 Cobb Island Road, Cobb Island, Sunday, Oct. 28, from noon to 4 p.m.