As parents and educators, ensuring safety is paramount. In the school-age 2 program at Rising Oaks | Oak Creek, we understand the significance of importing crucial life skills to young minds. Among these skills, fire safety stands out as an indispensable lesson for every child.
It’s a good idea to talk to your children about fire safety, how to avoid starting fires, and what to do if there is a fire around. Children as young as 3-5 can learn what to do in a fire emergency. This is a lifelong skill that they will take into adulthood. If we educate children from an early age, accidents can be prevented, and lives can be protected. Schools and child care centers are required to have fire drills to prepare students and staff for emergency situations. In addition, schools can invite local fire departments to give presentations on fire safety, which can be an effective way to reinforce the importance of fire safety to students.
Our friends showed a high interest about fire safety, and their teachers wanted to provide them with more information regarding this theme. We found out that one of our student’s parent is a firefighter. “My dad is a firefighter!”, said Elena. As this amazing opportunity showed up for our kids, Elena’s dad became our special guest. He was invited to talk and share about his knowledge regarding fire emergencies, fire equipment, evolution of the equipment, strategies that are used during emergencies, and what we can do in case of an emergency, so we can be safe.
When children were asked who do you call in case of an emergency, Chloe said, “911”. Our students were educated about the simple, but important things that they will have to talk about when on a call with 911 dispatch: who you are, what is happening, where are you, as well as listen and follow instructions given. This can save lives, as time and details are crucial when a fire occurs. In any kind of emergency, collaboration is key, and everyone needs to work as a team to have the best results, save as many lives as possible and keep our loved ones safe. When children were asked what a wildfire is, Gabriel said that” Wildfire is an outdoor fire, out of the city, still dangerous”.
Our friends had the opportunity to see and be in contact with a real firefighter uniform, and also try it on. It was explained that this type of uniform has a special design and material, so that the person who wears it can be protected from fire.
Firefighter hats were made using construction paper and painting, and many art activities related to this subject. The children simply had an amazing time while learning about fire safety. We are proud to be part of this community, where safety and dedication are a priority when it comes to helping and protecting people.
Special thanks to Elena’s dad who volunteered to share his experience and knowledge into our student’s benefits, to Erin Wilhelm, and of course to Kathleen Mills and Candice Reiner, who offered unconditional support during all this time.
