Expo promotes fire safety in Northeast Philadelphia

NORTHEAST PHILADELPHI (WPVI) -- Fire departments from all over the region gathered at the Philadelphia Fire Academy in Northeast Philadelphia on Sunday for the Fireman's Hall Museum Fire Safety Exposition and Muster.

"A muster really is an event that allows fire departments the opportunity to show off their wares, their equipment and their abilities," said Rick Coppola, president of Philadelphia Fire Department's Historical Corp.

Crowds gathered to watch the fire boat demonstration on the water and they got an up-close look at lines of fire equipment old and new.

"I like the fire trucks and seeing all the activities," said 10-year-old Sasha Lebovich.

One of the most popular showcases was a live burn of two structures.

One didn't have sprinklers and escalated to a blaze in less than four minutes. The other one had sprinklers and you could definitely see the difference.

"I think it's very important because people can see what sprinklers can do in your residential place or in your commercial building and you can see how fast you can put a fire out," said Dave McCormick.

Admission was free for the event. Proceeds from concessions and raffles go toward maintaining the fire museum and providing free smoke alarms to those in need.

There was fun, contests and games - all to help promote fire safety awareness and education and that it's never too early to get the message.

"I think the earlier the better so if something does happen they'll be prepared," said Tammy Pfeiffer, parent.