On Saturday, Oct. 12, Old Saybrook Fire Company No. 1 (OSFC), Inc. will host its 100th Anniversary Block Party from noon to 4 p.m. on the Town Green. The event is free to attend and will feature fun for the whole family.

A press release states the party will include free food and beverages, fire prevention activities, children’s games an inflatable bounce houses, and a touch-a-truck event featuring fire engines and firefighting equipment.

“This block party is our way of saying a special thank you to the entire town of Old Saybrook for all their support and encouragement as our fire company celebrates its 100th anniversary this year,” said Chief of Department Joseph Johnson in a statement.

Tony Cronin, the fire company secretary, said he looks forward to seeing a full house for the party.

“This was a thank you to the town for the support we’ve received over the past century. We wanted to do something to thank the town and something prominent on the town green. We really want people to come out,” Cronin said.

Cronin reiterated the party will have fun for the whole family while also highlighting important fire safety tips.

The Old Saybrook Fire Company No. 1 was founded as a volunteer organization in 1924. Then, the department had one fire engine and a 33-member all-volunteer crew that served a town of 1,500 people. Now, the company has 80 total volunteers serving a vastly more crowded town. And it’s not just fires the department assists with.

“Without the tremendous support of our town officials, our residents, and our business community, we couldn’t have grown into today’s well trained volunteer fire department that proudly protects the town of Old Saybrook24/7 from harm’s way – whether it’s fires, accidents, marine emergencies, or natural disasters like flooding or hurricanes,” said Johnson.

The block party is the second celebration for the of the 100th anniversary of the company. In August, the company held a parade and gala that was attended by about 30 other fire departments from across the state.

“The parade really went well. We have several hundred people there and were really encouraged by it. We just want people to know about and come out to this block party, too. I think it’ll be a really nice event for everyone,” said Cronin.

For more information about the Old Saybrook Fire Company No. 1, visit oldsaybrookfire.com.