Naperville police, firefighters host public safety open house

Usually, seeing first responders in action isn't a good thing - it means there's been an accident or emergency dire enough to call for professional help.

But on Saturday, during the city of Naperville's public safety open house, the tables were turned. Watching firefighters, SWAT teams, even helicopter pilots and K9s do their thing was part of a day of education, activities and good times.

The city's police and fire departments hosted the open house to focus on crime and fire prevention and to give the public a glimpse into their lives.

Highlights included a police K-9 demonstration, a fire flashover demonstration and chances for kids to squirt a real fire hose or adults to learn how to use a fire extinguisher. In one activity, visitors even got to watch first responders descend from a helicopter, extricate a driver from a car and simulate making an arrest for driving under the influence.

The annual event takes place during National Fire Prevention Month.