CCFD teaches children about fire safety

By PAMELA GRANT
Cove Leader-Press

The Copperas Cove Fire Department taught children about fire safety on Tuesday.
The safety lesson was part of the Copperas Cove Public Library’s ongoing Summer Reading Program. Paramedic firefighter Ross Carter and firefighter Dalton Kuehn taught children about what to do in case of a fire, when to call 9-1-1, the importance of making an escape plan, and more.
“We try to get involved with the kids in the community,” said Carter. “I really want to get the parents involved and making a plan.”
Carter stressed the importance of making a plan saying that it could help save lives. It’s important to make sure that everyone knows what they are supposed to do and where they should meet up in case of an emergency. 
After the informative portion of the class, the kids had the opportunity to check out a fire truck and see some firefighting equipment. The children also had the opportunity to make their way under an obstacle meant to simulate how one should stay low when escaping a burning room in order to avoid smoke inhalation. Unfortunately, the firefighters had to leave early after receiving a call.
“I think it was good,” said Marie Eclavea who brought her children Xavier (8) and Riley Eclavea (7) to the program.
“I liked it!” said Riley Eclavea.
“It was good,” said Xavier Eclavea who added that his favorite part was getting to look at the back of the fire truck and the ladders. He said that he learned about how the firefighters can control the pressure of their water hose.
Susanne Williams brought her son Joseph Williams (7) to the fire safety program. She said that she enjoys the events and activities offered by the library’s Summer Reading Program. She also likes the idea of the reading goals.
“I think it’s good,” said Williams. “It gives the kids responsibility by having them set a goal and reach it.”
Children have three reading level goals each with rewards for meeting them. Those meeting the third goal and reading at least 500 minutes are invited to attend a Pizza Party on July 24.
The Summer Reading Program will continue next week with a martial arts demonstration by Self Defense America on Tuesday at 2 p.m. and the Austin Reptile Show on Thursday at 2 p.m., 4 p.m., and 6 p.m. The library will be closed on Wednesday, July 4 in observance of Independence Day.
All of the library’s Summer Reading Program events and activities are free and open to the public.