Academy firefighters host fire safety camp

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Veronica Ward
  • U.S. Air Force Academy Public Affairs
U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. --  Nearly 50 children attended the 10th Civil Engineer Squadron Fire Department's annual Youth Fire Safety Camp at Fire Station 1 June 23.

The kids, all eight to 12, learned about fire extinguishers, how and when to dial 911, learned simple fire-fighting techniques and were shown firefighters' protective gear.

Some children took part in a Bucket Brigade relay, racing to fill large bins containing a tennis ball with buckets of water. The winning team was announced when the ball fell out of the bin due to the overflow of water.

The kids also took part in a fire hose-rolling relay and got the chance to handle the hose.

"I got to spray my friends," said Langston Ball, 10.

The camp featured a free lunch and concluded with each child receiving a certificate for completion and a better understanding of fire safety.

"I'm ready if there's an emergency," Langston said.

Tony Phillips, 10th CES assistant fire chief, said the annual camp is always fun but it's also a means for Academy firefighters to continue spreading the word about fire prevention.

"The kids were talking about the camp even after it concluded and I hope they continue the conversation about fire prevention and safety with their friends and parents," he said.

The Fire Department has scheduled an open house at Fire Station 1, 11a.m.-2 p.m., August 15, and will also take part in Fire Prevention Week events October 5 - 9, Phillips said.