Kerry Rose Foundation Hosts Fire Safety Event

The Commack family and friends of Kerry Rose Fitzsimons will host a barbecue to thank local residents who have given them support, while continuing to spread their mission this Friday.

The Kerry Rose Foundation is hosting a Community Fire Safety Event at Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve this Friday, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. The event is open to all with free demonstrations of fire safety, food and live music. 

"This is a humble attempt to show our appreciation for all of the support we have received," said Kerry's parents, Maryanne and Robert, in a written statement. 

Fitzsimons was one of three Marist college students who died in a fire that tore through a student-rented, off-campus house on Jan. 21. The cause of death was determined to be smoke inhalation while sleeping. 

Since her death, Kerry's family and friends have created a nonprofit organization in her memory, The Kerry Rose Foundation. The organization's mission is to raise fire safety awareness, specifically about fire sprinklers, and disseminate information to college students about their rights in off campus housing, according to its website.

In line with its mission, the Commack Fire Department trucks will be present at Friday's event, along with Smoke House, representatives from the National Fire Sprinkler Association and Kidde Smoke detectors. Demonstrations on fire safety techniques will be held. 

Residents will be offered fresh grilled hamburgers and hot dogs on a first-come, first-served basis as token of appreciation from the Fitzsimons family. Residents are advised to bring their own beverages. 

"Souls on Board," a band covering popular modern rock and top 100, funk, soul, reggae, R&B, classic rock, and other songs will perform with a surprise local musician as entertainment. 

While there is no entry fee for the event, donations to the Kerry Rose Foundation will be graciously accepted.  

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