Firefighter Mark welcomes preschoolers to Station 22

Every year, firefighters from Portland Fire & Rescue talk to hundreds of children through both fire station tours and trips to local schools. While these talks can be an entertaining and memorable experience for the children, they are also an important educational opportunity in terms of teaching children fire safety.

On Friday, preschoolers from the James John Elementary School Head Start Program visited Fire Station 22 in North Portland to learn more about fire safety. The group talked about how to stay fire safe at home, what to do if you find matches, and how playing with fire could hurt home, family, pets, and toys. 

Firefighter Mike dons his turnout gear and SCBA

A firefighter then donned his protective gear, explaining each piece of equipment as he put it on.  Kids were able to hear what a working Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) sounds like as well as what a firefighter will look like when they are coming to save them. Firefighters reminded kids that during a fire, no matter how scared they are, do not hide from a firefighter. 

The preschoolers also watched a fire safe video and explored the station’s fire engine and truck.

Firefighters help preschoolers to explore Fire Engine 22

Parents – click here to visit the National Fire Protection Association’s Sparky website to help your kids learn more about fire safety, including escape routes, and smoke alarms.

  Portland Fire & Rescue We Respond: Always Ready, Always There

  June 7, 2010