THE CFA Merrijig Brigade held an open day on Saturday, January 7,with the aim of educating residents and visitors on fire awareness and preparedness.

Held at the Merrijig Community Hall, Alpha Street, the day included a barbecue, raffles, displays of fire trucks and equipment and more.

A feature of the displays was the brigade's new ultralight and quick fill truck.

An explanation by brigade members on how fires behave and the precautions you should take to avoid being caught up in a bush fire was also included in the planning session.

Explaining the new Australian Fire Danger Rating System, along with how to prepare you family's fire plan – something every household should have was given.

Included in the planning session was how to prepare you property for the fire season and how to respond in case of a local fire incident (bush fire).

Booklets and pamphlets on how to prepare and deal with the current fire season were available.