WHEN SCHOOL`S OUT, SAFETY`S IN
BY TOM KIURSKI
Livonia (MI) Fire & Rescue recently implemented a summer safety event, similar to our Fire Prevention Week Open House, called a “School`s Out, Safety`s In” party. The program is based on a similar one from Austin, Texas. We invited all Livonia schoolchildren to attend the summertime safety party by distributing flyers in schools and through newsletters, newspapers, and public service announcements. The party was held the first day after school let out for the summer, to allow the kids maximum use of the summer safety tips we offered.
We used many of the same activities we use during Fire Prevention Week Open House to illustrate the importance of fire safety and then added new ones. We set up a table to show how building fire alarm detection and suppression systems operate and another table for handouts and giveaways such as bookmarks, hand stamps, and temporary tattoos. A lifeguard from a city pool talked about water safety and gave out pamphlets and free passes to any city pool. Livonia police D.A.R.E. officers gave out “Stranger Danger” tips, child ID kits, and activity sheets. A representative from a local bike shop gave bike safety tips, displayed safety gear such as helmets and reflectors, and provided a “bike checkup” for attendees` bikes. A local radio personality and mascot stopped by, much to the delight of the crowd. A rollerblade expert gave a demonstration and tips for safe rollerblading. The local library set up a table to remind kids of summer reading programs and other special events taking place at the library. Local businesses donated giveaways including sports posters and movie rentals.
Using a public address system we set up, all the invited safety experts gave brief safety messages to the crowd throughout the party. The system also was used to notify winners of raffle prizes. Raffle tickets were free and put in a bin for various drawings throughout the day.
Many firefighters showed up to help staff the event, bringing family members and even a pet Dalmatian. Another member`s father, himself a retired firefighter, brought an antique fire truck for kids to look at and sit in. We also displayed current apparatus.
TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL EVENT
Have plenty of help on hand at an event of this size.
Start out small, and build on your program each year.
Provide a way for safety experts and attendees to give feedback, to help you plan next year`s event.
The necessary ingredients for a successful program are summertime, safety, and fun.
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TOM KIURSKI is a firefighter and the director of fire safety education for Livonia (MI) Fire & Rescue.
