Published November 01. 2023 10:01AM
by JENN RAGO Special to The Press
Firetrucks and firefighters arrived at Sheckler Elementary School Oct. 20 as part of the yearly firefighting program.
Students were given the opportunity to learn firsthand about National Fire Prevention Month, which is celebrated every October to raise awareness about the importance of fire safety. The monthlong event promotes lifesaving practices and home fire safety education.
Catasauqua Fire Department presented various fire safety-related activities for students. The all-day event provided each grade time with the firefighters. Catasauqua firefighters delivered educational training and provided a hands-on experience for kids to see and touch the firetrucks and equipment up close.
National Fire Prevention Month started in 1925 when President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed October as the designated month for the awareness. The event was created in response to the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, which killed more than 250 people and destroyed more than 17,000 buildings. Coolidge believed the fires could have been prevented with some basic understanding of fire.
In 2020, there were 3,500 civilian deaths and 15,200 injuries due to fires.
The program’s goal every year is to educate people on the importance of maintaining fire safety throughout the year. Education and awareness are among the best means of preventing fires.
PRESS PHOTOS BY JENN RAGO Catasauqua Fire Department trucks arrive at Sheckler Elementary School Oct. 20 for National Fire Prevention Month.
Sparky the fire dog and students listen to a firefighter explain the use of equipment on the fire engine.
Sparky helps firefighters show the truck to Sheckler Elementary students.
Sheckler students raise their hands to answer the firefighter's question.
A firefighter demonstrate a crawl - a way to safely move through a smoke-filled room while trying to locate people trapped in a fire.
Firefighters and Sparky gather together for a photo before heading back to the station.
