Annual Open House

Saturday, October 10, 2026

Fire Station #1 – 1300 Burnett Avenue

Event Schedule

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM | Sensory-Friendly Hour
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM | General Admission

Join Us for a Day of Fun & Fire Safety!

In recognition of National Fire Prevention Week (October 4-10, 2026), the Ames Fire Department invites you to our annual Open House, a community-favorite event filled with hands-on activities, safety demonstrations, and family fun!

Sensory-Friendly Hour (8:00 AM – 9:00 AM)

We’re dedicated to making this event accessible for everyone! This special hour offers a calm and welcoming environment for individuals with sensory sensitivities, including those with autism or sensory processing disorders. Activities will be quieter, crowds smaller, and stimuli reduced to create a comfortable experience for all.

What to Expect

Explore a variety of interactive stations and activities designed to educate and engage attendees of all ages:

Spray a fire hose at our house prop
Win a prize by answering fire safety questions at the Plinko® Game
Learn how to use a fire extinguisher
Identify fire hazards in our interactive Hazard House
Tour our fire trucks and check out the latest equipment
Step inside an ambulance and meet a Mary Greeley Medical Center Paramedic
Find your home on our map and have a fire fighter explain how we would get there in an emergency
Meet a dispatcher and find out what happens when you call 911
Learn and practice "Stop, Drop, and Roll"
Take a guided tour of the fire station (Note: The second floor is not ADA accessible)
See how much you've grown year after year with our life-sized Sparky measuring board
Meet an Ames Police Officer and get an up-close look at their squad car
Pose for a fun fire pole photo op
Check out our technical rescue equipment and learn how firefighters handle emergency situations

Freddie and Sparky will be at the event to meet visitors and take photos!

Mark Your Calendar and Join the Fun!

This is a FREE event open to all members of the community. Whether you're a child excited to meet a firefighter or an adult looking to learn fire safety tips, there’s something for everyone.