By Brennan Phillips
Western News Staff
Kids from nine local schools had the opportunity to see a little of what it’s like to be a firefighter with the annual Fire Chief for Day event.
As part of Fire Prevention Week, Fire Chief for a Day offers the kids a chance to visit the fire hall and interact with Sparky the fire safety dog and the firefighters, as well as go through a mini boot camp.
“The kids love it, especially getting to play with the big fire hose,” said Penticton fire chief Larry Watkinson. “It’s an opportunity for them to learn a bit about what it’s like to be a firefighter, and to have fun.”
The kids spent several hours at the fire hall, having lunch with their families and the firefighters before getting to run through some activities. They practised pulling a dummy, played hide and seek with the firefighters thermal imaging camera, blasted targets with water from a fire hose, before ending the afternoon with a ride in one of the fire engines.
The number of residential fires decreased between 2006 and 2014, but they remain a consistent risk. As part of the campaign to keep people, and children, safer during a residential fire, this year’s Fire Prevention Week theme is Look, for any signs of a fire and places a fire could start; Listen, for the sound of the smoke alarm; and Learn, at least two exits out of any building for an emergency.
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