Typically, the Wright-Patt Fire Department holds its fire prevention kick-off on the first Saturday of October at the Base Exchange. This year it was held earlier and at the youth center to promote increased participation in the community.
“We wanted to increase fire prevention awareness as well as community risk reduction,” said Osterhage.
Children and parents from the Prairies Child Development Center, as well as the surrounding community, were able to experience static fire truck displays, view truck equipment and interact with firefighters and operators while there.
“They can go through our fire prevention safety trailer where there’s interaction inside the trailer for the little ones to learn about fire safety,” said Osterhage.
Firefighters also set up a mini combat challenge course for the kids to exercise and be timed.
“We tried to think outside the box, and I think everyone has done a phenomenal job so far,” said Osterhage.
The 788th Civil Engineering Squadron Fire Department works and interacts with the Child Development Centers and the Youth Center throughout the year, ensuring positive fire safety practices are constantly be communicated through hands-on instruction.
“Parents can also talk with their children and reinforce how dangerous it is to play with fire,” said Osterhage. “Make sure to always supervise them if they are near campfire or bonfires.”
Osterhage recommends having discussions as a family unit to try to create the best course of action in an emergency situation.
“Talk about a fire escape plan with a rally point outside for the family to meet,” said Osterhage.
For more information on fire safety, visit www.nfpa.org.
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