It's heavy During the student tours of the fire hall last year, students were surprised by the weight of an oxygen bottle. The Staples Fire Department will hold an open house at the fire hall from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 9.

Everyone may visit various informational stations and take a close look at the department's firefighting equipment. There will be refreshments, demonstrations and door prizes.

"We would like everyone to come. We had a great turnout last year and we're hoping to surpass that turnout this year," said Jeff DeGeest, Safety Chief, SFD.

The Staples Fire Department reminds residents to make a family escape plan which includes at least two exits, an outside meeting place and to practice the plan.

Fire Prevention Week is Oct. 4-10. The firefighters will be giving student tours Thursday and Friday (early dismissal day). This year's theme is "Stay Fire Smart - Don't Get Burned". Student Fire Prevention Posters will be displayed at the hall during the open house. The hall is located on 4th St. NE.