News : VFD hosts Fire Prevention Week with Fire Truck Rides and Safety Demonstrations

Fire Prevention Week brought awareness and fun to local children courtesy of the Vinton Fire Department

The Vinton Fire Department once again brought excitement and education to the community for Fire Prevention Week. The department engaged elementary students and families with fun and interactive activities designed to teach fire safety and prevention. This weeklong event kicked off with a series of activities aimed at raising awareness about the importance of fire safety while giving local children hands-on experiences they'll never forget.

Throughout the week, elementary students had the opportunity to tour the fire station and get an up-close look at the life-saving equipment used by firefighters. The children were given rides on fire trucks, allowing them to experience what it's like to be in a real fire engine as it responds to emergencies. Firefighters took time out of their week to explain the various parts of the truck, showing how it operates and allowing the children to try spraying the fire hose, a favorite activity for many young participants.

During the station tours, the firefighters engaged the students in critical fire safety lessons. They explained what to do in case of a fire at home, emphasizing the importance of staying low to avoid smoke and practicing escape plans. Students learned about the importance of smoke detectors, how to "get low and go" beneath the smoke. The firefighters reminded children that if their bedroom door is hot and they can't escape to sit on the floor near the window to wait for the fire department. These essential skills could save lives, and the firefighters made sure the kids left with a clear understanding of what to do during an emergency.

One of the highlights of the week was Operation EDITH (Exit Drill In The Home), which took place on Thursday night. At 7:00 p.m. The siren sounded and the fire trucks went out with lights and sirens across town, signaling families to practice their fire escape drills. Operation EDITH reminds families to create a meeting spot outside their homes. 

Families are encouraged to use this opportunity to remind their children throughout the year of their exit plans and where to gather outside the house Residents turned on their porch lights to signify that they've completed the drill. 

Fire Prevention Week wrapped up with a breakfast fundraiser on Sunday, where the community came together and enjoyed a hearty meal while supporting the fire department. The fundraiser helps the department continue its efforts to promote fire safety education and purchase equipment that keeps the community safe.

The Vinton Fire Department's Fire Prevention Week is a perfect blend of fun and education, ensuring that the next generation understands the importance of fire safety while giving them a chance to experience the excitement of a firefighter's job. Through activities like fire truck rides, hands-on demonstrations, and crucial safety lessons, the department hopes to keep families prepared and safe from the dangers of house fires.

A special thanks to our guys for their dedication throughout the year providing assistance across the area in all kinds of situations from car accidents to the house fire.

A special thank you to all of the men who took part of their work week to spend it with our kids. This is one week of the year that the kids will remember as fun, yet it teaches them not to be afraid, but to be aware of their surroundings. The department does and exceptional job of creating realistic experiences for the children, while showing them what to expect if the department is ever called to their house.

Well done guys!

Here is a link to some of the school children who visited the station as well as others who had an opportunity to ride the fire truck!