This afternoon, close to 75 kindergartners from Chief Joseph School in North Portland received a visit and fire safety talk from Portland Fire & Rescue’s Station 8 truck crew.

Lieutenant Jason and Firefighter Sultan joined together to walk the young students through the process of dialing 9-1-1, how to stop, drop and roll if their clothes catch fire, what a smoke alarm sounds like, and safety procedures and escape tactics they can use in the unfortunate case of a fire at school or at home. 

Lieutenant Jason explained the difference between “tools” and “toys,” and used an interactive lesson to teach kids to be aware of their own role in avoiding dangerous situations with matches and lighters.

Firefighter Sultan donned his turnouts and breathing apparatus to show kindergartners that although firefighters may look scary during a fire, it’s important to know they are their friends and it's important not to hide or be afraid.

The young students and teachers then joined Captain Phil and Firefighters David and Aaron outside of the school to explore Truck 8.

Students were excited to see and touch the firefighting equipment that Truck 8 carries, but the highlight of the day was the chance to step into the truck’s bucket and experience what it’s like to be a firefighter!

Talk To Your Child About Fire Safety

Many fires are preventable. By practicing safety behaviors and removing or monitoring known fire dangers in a home, you can help reduce the chance of a fire. Make safety a regular part of your family's routine and keep your home the safe, comforting place it is always meant to be. Remember these fire safety tips and stay safe:

• Talk to your child about fire and its dangers.
• Let your child know how a smoke alarm sounds: Allow them to hear it when you are testing it so they know the sound and what it means.
• Tell your child not to play with matches or lighters they may find: Tell your child to tell you if they find matches or lighters.
• Show your child how to crawl low in case of fire: Practice how to crawl low on all fours if there is a fire with a lot of smoke. Do not crawl on your belly.
• Teach the stop, drop, and roll technique: If your child is old enough, practice this technique to put out fires that may get on clothes.
• Practice your fire escape plan: At least monthly, practice your family escape plan. Make it routine so that it won't be as scary if it has to be followed.
• Tell your child not to hide in case of fire or if they see firefighters: Many young children hide when they are scared. By practicing with your child, they will be less afraid. Tell your child to not hide, and if they see firefighters not to run away.

   Portland Fire & Rescue 

   We Respond: Always Ready, Always There

   March 31, 2011

Follow Portland Fire & Rescue on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube