“Look, listen, learn, be aware. Fire can happen anywhere,” is the premise associated with the 2018 National Fire Prevention Week, which is customarily held during the week when Oct. 9 falls.
The week is held to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire that began October 8, 1871.
The observance seeks to educate people about the three basic, however, essential steps needed to reduce the likelihood of having a fire and how to escape safely just in case.
Indianola firefighter, Sgt. Willie Rounds stopped by Inverness and East Sunflower elementary schools last week to talk to the children and bring awareness to the cause.
Rounds conducted demonstrations and talks in and out of the classroom and students had occasion to operate the fire hoses and go hands on with the gear.
His presentations centered on exit plan strategy, establishing two ways out in case of a fire.
The teachers gave instructions on what to do when the sirens and horns are sounded and the children practiced safety drills.
Drills were conducted with grades K-8th and in addition, students in third through eighth grades were also exposed to classroom lectures on the importance and use of firefighter gear.
