Fire prevention lessons resonate

Editorial reprinted from Cape Gazette – Published 10/18/2024

October is Fire Prevention Month, a crucial time to remind ourselves of the importance of fire safety and the role it plays in protecting our homes, families and communities.

Last week, our local firefighters and EMTs did a remarkable job engaging young students during Fire Prevention Week, teaching them vital skills that can save their lives and the lives of their loved ones. Through interactive demonstrations at fire departments and outside schools, firefighters brought fire safety to life, making it accessible and relatable for children.

The efforts of our local fire departments extend far beyond just education; they reflect a deep commitment to the safety and well-being of our community. It’s important to remember our local volunteers will run into a burning building no matter who is there.

The engaging presentations to students, coupled with hands-on activities, not only provided essential knowledge about firefighting but hopefully also fostered respect for the firefighters who serve our Cape Region towns, and an understanding of what they’re doing when a fire truck or ambulance speeds by.

Whether learning to stop, drop and roll or how to identify safe exits during a fire emergency, these lessons learned during Fire Prevention Week are invaluable and can help save lives in critical situations.

However, it’s important to remember that our local fire departments face significant funding challenges, especially in light of the Cape Region’s rapid population growth. With increased demand for services resulting in a record number of calls year after year, it’s crucial that the community supports these departments to ensure they can continue to provide timely emergency response. This includes having modern apparatus to help them get the job done most effectively.

As a community, we must rally together to support our local fire departments. Consider making a donation to help them keep up with the demands of our growing population. Together, we can make a difference during this Fire Prevention Month and beyond.

Source:  Cape Gazette - https://www.capegazette.com/article/fire-prevention-lessons-resonate%C2%A0/282523