Special Areas firefighters host fire safety day for 230 students
HANNA, AB — More than 230 students from across east-central Alberta got hands-on fire safety training May 6 at an Emergency Preparedness and Fire Safety Day hosted by Special Areas Fire Services and the Hanna Fire Department.
The event, held in Hanna in collaboration with Prairie Land School Division, drew students in grades 4 to 9 from Berry Creek, Delia, Hanna, Morrin and Youngstown schools.
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Local firefighters showed students how to use a fire extinguisher, put out fires at the burn tower, test motor vehicle accident rescue tools and operate the livestock rescue trailer used for livestock rollovers. Students also toured the Brooks Fire Department's simulation trailer, which replicated a barbecue fire, kitchen fire, house fire and a tornado.
"It's important for students of this age to learn about fire safety," said Rob Palmer, Special Areas Fire Chief. "Some of them might be staying home alone after school, babysitting at someone else's home or working out on the farm. Fires can happen anywhere to anyone and it's our job to help people feel prepared if a fire does happen."
Students wrote down the top three things they learned during the day. More than 200 forms were completed. Common takeaways included the PASS method for using a fire extinguisher — pull the pin, aim, squeeze and sweep — the importance of calling 9-1-1 every time, and the weight of firefighter gear.
"Don't go into a fire without gear or you will be a burnt chicken nugget," wrote Amelia, a student.
FireSmart information packages were sent home with all students, and each school received a 72-hour emergency kit.
More information on fire and emergency services in the Special Areas is available at specialareas.ab.ca.