Beginning Tuesday, September 29, 2015, WFR will be kicking off the 2015 Fire Prevention Week. This is a nationwide event, with the actual dates running from October 4th through October 10th, 2015. WFR will be taking it's Fire Safety House around to all of the elementary schools in Watertown. This will involve approximately 375 3rd graders in both the public and parochial schools. The Safety House has played a key role in educating Watertown and local communities for about 20 years now. The 3rd graders learn the importance of getting out and staying out in case of a fire, and to also have a safe meeting place where they can go to get out of inclement weather.
Another event we participate in is a Win a Ride to School contest. Local 4th graders will be participating by writing essays. The winner from each school will win a ride to school in a fire truck. This is a wonderful opportunity for the kids and they really enjoy writing the essays. There are only 8 winners, one from each school, out of the 340 essays. It's quite an honor to be chosen, and WFR wishes each 4th grade participant the best of luck!
Lastly, local 5th grade classrooms will get visited by WFR staff, and we will talk about the importance of being fire smart. We go over safety issues their home's may present, as well as some additional information regarding general fire safety. There will be approximately 325 5th graders sitting through these presentations.
WFR also does various school visits throughout the fall, speaking to children about fire safety. We look forward to these almost as much as the kids do! It is a great opportunity for us to answer questions they may have about being a firefighter/paramedic and also the importance they play in being fire smart.
With the cold weather coming WFR would like to remind you all to have your furnaces inspected before firing them up for the fall/winter. Change your furnace filters and keep your utility rooms free of clutter, as many fires originate there. Also, remember with the time change coming up on November 1st, to change your smoke alarm or smoke detector batteries. Also check them at this time for proper function. If you are unable to perform the test or change your batteries on your own please call WFR for assistance. 1-605-882-5030.