Halstead students learn safety measures during National Fire Prevention Month

By ALICIA PELKEY

Special to Leader-Press

Stop, drop and roll. It’s a common fire prevention technique taught to students nationwide. Halstead Elementary students learned this lifesaving lesson from Copperas Cove firefighters as part of National Fire Prevention Month recognized each October. 

Copperas Cove Firefighters Cody Ragsdale and Trever Barclay reinforced the message with three main components:  how to escape a fire, what to expect when you see a fireman and what to do if you catch on fire.  The firefighters talked to students about proper evacuations in case of a fire and determining safe ways out of their homes. Ragsdale and Barclay explained that once someone’s house is on fire, it is a scary situation. Barclay put on the full firefighter’s uniform complete with helmet and facemask to show students not to be afraid if they see firemen dressed this way. 

First grader Cameron Grubb was in awe of what he saw, but he understood the point clearly.

“I will not be afraid of the firemen,” he said proudly, cementing the firefighters’ message. 

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, fewer children die in fires today compared to 10 years ago due, in part, to an increase in public fire education and prevention efforts. Fire prevention and preparedness lessons children learn from fire service professionals visiting their schools continue to make an impact on children and families.

As Barclay walked through the crowd of students giving “high fives” and letting students see and touch his full uniform, Kindergartener Autumn Carr was already familiar with the scenario.

“My family has firemen and I know not to be afraid,” she said. “I love them.” 

Firefighters finalized their educational presentation reinforcing with the students the steps they should take if they catch on fire. The students yelled in unison to stop, drop and roll. STOP, DROP and ROLL is yelled by the crowd excitedly. 

The overall trend in the fire death rate of children ages 0 to 14 was cut nearly in half from 2002-2010 with a 45 percent decrease. By 2011, the chance of children dying in a fire had dropped to

50 percent less than the general population. Copperas Cove Fire Department Deputy Fire Chief Gary D. Young believes his department’s education initiative is making an impact.

 “It is extremely important for firefighters to connect with children when they are most impressionable so that we can make a lasting impression upon them about the importance of fire prevention,” Young said.

CCISD conducts monthly fire drills in its schools throughout the school year.