Fire Station Trip
We discussed how fire fighters help the community, what to do in case of an emergency, and what to do in a fire. Our kids took away the importance of fire safety, learning the number 911, and what to do if your clothes were on fire (STOP, DROP, and ROLL). One of the fire fighters got into rescue gear to show students what a fire fighter, who is ready to help someone, looked like. They learned about the different tools they used and clothes such as the helmet, jacket, boots, gloves, and oxygen tank and mask.
A fire extinguisher was introduced to students and each student was given a chance to squirt a fire extinguisher. Our attention was brought to the two trucks. We were shown how loud the sirens got and each child was able to sit in the fire truck. Unfortunately, they were not able to try on the uniforms. Regardless, we had a great time. We were really fortunate to be able to arrive at the fire station during a time where they were not called to an emergency. On trips to the fire or police station, there is always a chance it would have to be rescheduled because they were taking care of business.
Police Station Trip
After everyone had a chance to see the jail, we met back up in the meeting room where officer O'Donnell showed us things a police officer may use. The bulletproof vests were brought out and each child was able to try it on. Next, he introduced the police belt and the items it held. He made a comparison to Batman's utility belt. On his belt, he showed us his baton and mace. As Officer O'Donnell puts it, they are "tools that help bad guys listen." The demonstration would not be complete without handcuffs. Pairs of children were cuffed but due to their size, their hands would slip out. This was my opportunity to get cuffed…since I would never get cuffed outside a field trip to the police department.