When the Katikati town siren goes off, local volunteer firefighters drop what they’re doing and head to the station on Sheffield St.

Visitors to the Katikati Volunteer Fire Brigade got a taste of what happens next at their family open day, held on Saturday.

Lucian and Cassius Te Purei easily drag the 80kg dummy at the Katikati Volunteer Fire Brigade's open day. Photo / Rebecca Mauger

Potential firefighters and their kids came along to find out more about life as a firefighter at the open day, which included fire station tours, a chance to meet the ex-recruits, a look at the fire trucks, fitness training, Escape My House virtual reality experiences, colouring-in for kids and a waterways demonstration.

There was also the fire truck clearance inflatable, used to show the width and clearance space required for the fire engines to pass through.

Zion Randles, 2, relaxes in the fire truck with mum Maree Fitzgerald and dad Dale Randells. Photo / Rebecca Mauger

Deputy chief Craig Gray said they have 28 volunteers and several are women. He’d like to encourage more women to get in touch as it’s a rewarding job for all.

Mini-firefighter Quinn Arrow, 4, with volunteer firefighter Danielle Lister. Photo / Rebecca Mauger

The open day was a success, Gray said, as they gained three non-operational staff and four possible firefighters from the event.

Phone 027 414 4524 for more information on joining the local brigade.