MFD brings mobile fire-safety van for MPS students to get real-life experience

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- It's Fire Prevention Week Oct. 3-9, and the Milwaukee Fire Department (MFD) is hosting events all week to raise awareness.

On Monday, Oct. 4, 2021, Milwaukee firefighters spoke to students at Townsend Street School and gave them real scenarios to learn from.

Firefighters say prevention needs to start with children. 

"Don't put stuff near those space heaters if you have them," said Milwaukee Fire Chief Aaron Lipski. "And if you see your parents or your family members or friends, brothers, sisters doing anything unsafe like that remind them that we don't want a fire." 

It's part of Milwaukee Public School's curriculum for second and fourth graders.

It’s a major blast from the past here @MilwaukeeMPS Townsend Street School. Did the fire prevention bus come to your school as a kid?@CBS58 pic.twitter.com/Wm1twJy2eu

— Amanda Becker (@AmandaBeckerTV) October 4, 2021

"As superintendent of schools, I'm charged with ensuring our children are- not only educated in the classroom- but also making sure they are safe in case of an emergency at home," said MPS Superintendent Keith Posley. 

Monday's class was filled with tips, hazards to look for and real-life simulations. Using a "Mobile Survivors Live" van, kids were able to understand real-life scenarios they might be put in, like smoke and fire alarms. 

"The authentic learning and being able to go through the fire house and know the signs and know the sounds is very important," said Posley. 

The van will visit all second and fourth graders throughout the district.