Capable of dispensing up to 1,750 gallons of water per minute, the Buchanan Fire Department utilizes fire hoses to put out flames and, when off duty, help to keep people cool during the traditional summer Spray Day.

For the fifth year, Buchanan firefighters will volunteer their time to splash  those who participate with water from a fire hose, hoisted on top of a fire truck.

The cool summer activity is free and open to the public. Spray Day takes place from noon to 1 p.m. Thursday in the Buchanan Common Area, 128 E. Front St.

The event is made possible through a partnership the Buchanan District Library and the Buchanan Fire Department.

Those who participate are asked to bring a bathing suit and prepare to get muddy.

Bobby Blaylock, the assistant fire chief for the Buchanan Fire Department, and Sarah Gault, the youth services coordinator for the Buchanan District Library, developed the idea during a scorching hot summer five years ago, Blaylock, whose grandchildren participate in the library’s summer reading program, would often talk with Gault about ideas for new fun summer activities.

“It was hot and dry [that summer] so we said, ‘Hey why don’t we start doing [a] spray day?’” Blaylock said. “Let’s just make it fun for the kids. The city was in agreement with it and we have been doing it ever since.”

During some summers in the past, the fire department would host multiple Spray Days to keep people cool.

The Buchanan Fire Department often helps with youth activities to help educate children about fire safety. Spray Days presented another outlet for firefighters to connect with youth, Blaylock said. Three to four firefighters volunteer their time for the event.

For Gault, Spray Day is another fun activity to be able to offer to youth throughout the summer.

Participants from the summer reading and the Lunch, Learn and Listen program, which are combined programs, often join in the festivities. Gault said approximately 120 youth attend Spray Day each year.

“As long as you have a hot day it is a party,” Blaylock said.  “It is a good festive day and everybody looks forward to it.”

Prior to turning on the hose, a countdown precedes the spray of water.

In the event of rain or poor weather, Blaylock said they would likely look to reschedule the event for the following week.

Whether parent or child, Blaylock encouraged members of the community to participate.

“If you have got kids or grandkids bring them down. It is pretty cool,” Blaylock said.