News : \'Best Day:\' Firefighters students look forward to Fire Prevention Week lessons

Tilford students learn many fire safety lessons during this week each October.

Retired Vinton firefighter Bob LaGrange saw the aerial ladder extended 100 feet above the fire station and drove to the station, where he saw dozens of children gathered around fire trucks, trying on a firefighter's equipment, or learning how to operate the nozzle of a fire hose.

"Best day on the fire department," said LaGrange, who participated in many Fire Prevention Week activities during his time on the department.

LaGrange's comments echo those of many of the youngsters, who have through the years been heard saying "This is the best day ever!" while riding a fire truck or visiting the station.

Fire Prevention Week lessons take place over three days in Vinton. On Tuesday firefighters visited Kindergarten and first grade classrooms at Tilford Elementary. On Wednesday, second graders visited the fire station. Thursday is the day for another favorite: Fire truck rides.

Each year, the firefighters find new displays or lessons to add to their routine. The hose lessons were new a few years ago. This year, firefighters added the "Battle Fogger," which fills a room with a smoke-like fog designed to show children how difficult it is to see when a house is filled with smoke. Firemen also let children sit in the fire trucks, and explain what the vehicles and tools can do. In the classroom, firefighters discuss "Stop, drop and roll," calling 911, having working smoke detectors and safe meeting places, and other fire safety issues.

See photos of Tuesday's classroom lessons HERE.

See photos of Wednesday's fire station visits HERE.