The first fire station open house that Fire Chief James McLaughlin plans to hold on a monthly basis will be held this Saturday at Station One in Apponaug from 9 to 11 a.m.

“People drive by [fire stations] all the time, and unless there’s an emergency they don’t stop in,” McLaughlin said yesterday. His plan is for each of the city’s nine stations to conduct an open house during the course of the year.

The chief’s goal is for people to come by, “say hello” and meet the firefighters in their neighborhood.

“I’ve heard of this being done in other parts of the country. This is a chance for people to take a peak,” he said.

Personnel will also be available to answer questions, for example on where to place smoke detectors, and explain the purposes for various pieces of equipment. There will be coffee and other refreshments. The department and the union are hosting the event.

McLaughlin said children are welcome to attend.

The station open houses will not replace Fire Safety Day, an event featuring demonstrations such as the Jaws of Life, training procedures and other events. Fire Safety Day is scheduled for Sept. 24.