E.T. Hamilton Elementary School welcomed Voorhees firefighters on Oct. 11 for a presentation to mark Fire Prevention Week.
The annual October observance – recognized in the U.S. and Canada – is a reminder to observe fire safety and prevention. It has its roots in the Great Chicago fire of 1871, which claimed numerous lives and destroyed thousands of buildings.
Fire Prevention Week, first declared by President Calvin Coolidge in 1925, is an opportunity to emphasize the need for increased public awareness of fire dangers. Its primary sponsor this year – the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) – has chosen a 2024 theme that focuses on community preparedness and safety practices.
The township fire department’s presentation included demonstrations and educational materials to inform young students about preventing fires and what to do in an emergency. It engaged them with interactive discussions about fire safety, including the importance of having a family escape plan and the necessity of reguarly checking smoke detectors.
“It enhanced their knowledge of fire prevention by enhancing basic skills during an emergency,” Fire Chief Jim Polance said of the presentation.
The kids at Hamilton were captivated by a live demonstration of fire-safety equipment and a look at fire trucks, activities that Poland stressed so students could actually interact with firefighters.
“This hands-on experience made the safety lessons more memorable and relatable for the students,” he noted.
Students also participated in activities that included creating fire-safety posters and learning the various tools used by firefighters. The emphasis on practical safety measures resonated, with students saying they were eager to share their newfound knowledge with their families.
Parents are encouraged to discuss fire-safety plans at home and to ensure their children know what to do in case of a fire. For more information on Fire Prevention Week and safety tips, visit the National Fire Protection Association’s website.
