School fire program receives grant.
Byline: Michael KaneBOYLSTON - State Representative Harold Naughton Jr. announced last week that Boylston was among several communities that will receive a grant aimed at teaching school-aged children about fire prevention and safety.
Known as the SAFE Program, an acronym for Student Awareness of Fire Education, the curriculum-based program is managed by local fire departments.
Boylston will receive over $3,100, which can be used for materials and trainer certification purposes, Fire Chief Joseph Flanagan said.
"We do it K to (grade) 5," Flanagan said. "In fifth-grade, there is a dedicated session, so they have six classes per year."
For younger students, the program teaches fire safety concepts such as fire detectors, family meeting spots and "stop drop and roll, Flanagan said.
"It's a lot like the DARE program," he said, referring to the police sponsored Drug Abuse Resistance Education program for schools. "We talk a lot of carbon monoxide, what are its signs, where detectors should go."
In fifth grade, the additional class time with firefighters allows more involved lessons, such as how fire burns and fire extinguisher demonstrations.
"We get into a little more detail because the time is dedicated," Flanagan said.
The overall goal, according to a press release from Naughton's office, is for students to develop an understanding of the dangers that fire hazards may cause.
"This program is a valuable resource to students in grades K through 12 in the community," Naughton said. "It is important we ensure our children are equipped with the tools they need to protect themselves."
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| Publication: | Telegram & Gazette (Worcester, MA) |
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| Date: | Dec 23, 2010 |
| Words: | 255 |
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