A hot demonstration

Sometimes firefighting can be fun.

Like Sunday, when Newport Beach firefighters got to start a blaze and then knock it down before an undoubtedly awe-struck audience as part of the city’s open house event.

Newport Beach residents who stopped by the city’s police and fire stations on Santa Barbara Drive next to Fashion Island got to tour the stations and see the people who keep them safe demonstrate how they go about doing it.

Police showed off the Eagle helicopter, K-9 units and their stun guns, with one officer getting the dubious distinction to volunteer for a shocking. Firefighters competed to see who could do various tasks fastest in their uniforms.

One of the hottest shows was when firefighters got to show residents just how fast a room can be set ablaze, and what they have to do to put it out.

Proceeds went to local charities.

— Joseph Serna