AMHERST, Mass. (WWLP) - The Amherst Fire Department hosted their Annual Open House to celebrate National Fire Prevention Week. Since 1922, the National Fire Protection Association has sponsored the public observance of Fire Prevention Week, making it the longest-running public health observance in our country. The Amherst Fire Department opened its doors to show some of what they do to protect the community. Exhibits included a new hybrid fire truck, climbing practices, vehicle extraction strategies, and visits from the DCR's Smokey Bear, and Amherst Fire's own Sparky the Fire Dog. "It hopefully opens the door to awareness, fire safety, fire prevention, safe practices in the home, and also a little about the fire department in your community, so it's a really good day" said acting Assistant Fire Chief, Stephen Gaughan. "It gives us the opportunity to share with the people some of the exhibits, some of the other agencies in town, some of the partners, some of the community partners we work with." Gaughan encourages families to teach their children fire safety measures this fire prevention week so that if they ever end up in an emergency situation, they will be prepared.