Upper Milford Fire Department volunteers from the Old Zionsville and Vera Cruz fire stations combined their efforts for a community day Oct. 6 on the grounds of the Upper Milford Township Administration Building, 5671 Chestnut Street, Zionsville.

Nearly a dozen emergency vehicles were on display, as well as firefighter gear, tools and equipment which first responders use to help keep their community safe.

Displays helped the community better understand the training, time and effort that goes into the commitment to the countless volunteer hours first responders dedicate to emergency response in their communities.

An unplanned demonstration gave visitors an opportunity to witness a real-time firefighter response when a Vera Cruz fire engine was dispatched by the Lehigh County 911 Center for an “outside fire” in the community.

A crew from PPL Utilities provided both a community demonstration and a firefighter/rescue training opportunity with the utility’s live power trailer. The trailer gives an overview of the electrical dangers and rescue procedures involved with motor vehicle accidents that occur in proximity to power poles and lines.

Rescue technicians from both fire stations used portable power tools to demonstrate procedures utilized to in motor vehicle accidents with entrapped victims. Hydraulic tools were used to cut apart a junked vehicle to free a crash dummy “victim” and safely extricate the victim for transport to a hospital.

Emmaus and Macungie Ambulance personnel were on scene to support the day’s activities.

Salisbury Township’s fire safety trailer was on loan to Upper Milford firefighters to provide a realistic demonstration about how to exit a burning structure.

A food truck was also available to provide visitors with refreshments.

See additional photos on page A8.