MASD observes Fire Prevention Week
Members of the local fire department visited our school in observance of Fire Prevention Week.
Members of the department visited the district on October 8 and 9 in observation of Fire Prevention Week. On Thursday, October 9, Mark Ferris and Mike Petenbrink presented a pilot program to our middle school students. Ferris serves as the vice president and lieutenant in the department and Petenbrink is a life member, photographer and former assistant chief.
Ferris and Petenbrink presented a program on the work of a department in New York on the tragic day of 9/11. Their program tied in with a program recently presented to the middle school by geography teacher Mrs. Kristi Sines about the tragic events of that day. The men shared a video from that day that chronicles the experiences of the first department to respond to the World Trade Centers on 9/11.
On Friday, members returned for their annual presentation to Meyersdale Elementary students in kindergarten through second grade. Each year, these dedicated members volunteer their time and expertise to ensure our students understand the work they do and how they can keep themselves safe in emergency situations.
Department members walked students through every stage of an emergency beginning with how and when to call 911. Members described the process of making a call and what students should expect from the dispatcher and helped them understand how to answer the questions callers are asked during an emergency situation.
Students also urged students to “get low and go” during a fire. Members explained how important it is to stay as close to the floor as possible because of how dramatically the temperatures climb.
“We want you to stay as close to the ground as possible and get out, if you can, as quickly as you can,” explained Ferris.
He also reminded students to “close the door before you doze,” explaining how a closed door can not only keep you safe but can help contain a fire.
Recognizing that a firefighter in full gear can be very intimidating, members demonstrated what a firefighter looks like during a call.
“A firefighter in gear can be a little scary and our air packs make all kinds of noises but we don’t want you to be afraid. Yell and make sure we know where you are and know we are there to help you,” explained Ferris.
MVFD Chief Mike Miller said his members enthusiastically embrace these presentations and gladly volunteer their time.
“If we can help just one student to know what to do in an emergency situation, we have accomplished our goal. Hopefully, they never have to be in a situation that requires emergency personnel, but with our visits we try to help them to know what to expect and what to do if they find themselves in a 9/11 situation. We want the kids to know what to expect and what to do to keep themselves safe,” Miller explained. “We enjoy teaching the students and these presentations.”
“We are incredibly grateful for MVFD and appreciate their continued support of the MASD and our students,” added Devin Pritts, Meyersdale Area Elementary School principal. “We are fortunate to have such great individuals that make an impact on both the community and school.”