Annual Fire Prevention and Safety Day

October has been designated as National Fire Prevention Month — a time when public service departments across America join forces to spread the word about fire safety. In a team effort between the Mille Lacs Band Emergency Management division, Nay Ah Shing Schools and local safety divisions such as fire departments, emergency medical services, and electric and gas companies, this year’s safety event was a success in each school, according to Monte Fronk, Emergency Management Coordinator.

Students in the schools were given a classroom presentation prior to going outside to have a closeup view of equipment and demonstrations from each entity.

This year’s theme also pays particular attention to smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms and alert devices.

Fire departments and ambulance services have always been a big hit with the students. Utility companies have also been a part of the event for years. A new addition this year was the inclusion of local gas companies such as Center Point Energy. “The main reason for each of these presentations, is so the students can identify each of these entities as ‘helpers’ and people the students can trust and feel safe with when there is an emergency,” Monte said. “Kids often associate these companies with bad things. We want the students to feel safe when they see a utility company and to not be afraid to call them when there is an emergency.”

The gas company presentation includes what to do when they smell gas in their home and what gas smells like. The energy cooperatives provide a presentation in electrical safety, and of course, a very cool demonstration of a line truck and all of the tools.