YOUNGSTERS got the chance to meet their local firemen and check out their fire engines at an open evening in Dorchester.

The Dorchester Fire Station in Peverell Avenue, Pound-bury, opened its doors for the public and welcomed more than 100 people over the evening.

The event also included demonstrations by the fire crews including fighting chip pan fires, sprinkler safety and dealing with a road traffic collision.

Children also had the opportunity to meet Welephant, the fire safety mascot who came along to enjoy the evening.

Dorchester Station Commander, Steve Cheeseman said the evening was a great success.

He said: “More than 100 people came along.

“We were really pleased to welcome all these members of the community and talk to them about fire and road safety.”

The open evening also gave people the chance to sign up for a free home safety check, which provides advice about cooking and electrical safety as well as looking at escape plans, and includes a free smoke alarm check.

Mr Cheeseman said it was not too late for people to sign up online for a free safety check and also find out more about what firefighters will be doing in the local community.

He said: “If you missed the evening it’s not too late to sign up for a home safety check or attend one of our other station open days; check out our website <&bh"http://www.dorsetfire.gov.uk"> at dorsetfire.gov.uk<&eh> for more information.

“Dorchester fire crews will also be participating in the firefighters charity car wash this month so keep your eyes peeled.”

The fire crews answered questions on recruitment and spoke about what their job entails on a day-to-day basis.