By James M. Abraham
Thirty children ages five through 12 spent the week learning about fire safety at the Nevis fire hall, located near the Vance Amory International Airport.
Clad in bright green T-shirts emblazoned with “St. Kitts & Nevis Fire Safety Program,” the children were all ears as Natalie Fough, a fire station officer who is the programme’s coordinator, welcomed them.
“What are you going to be learning about fire?” she asked. “How to make a fire?” Many of the children shook their heads. Fough then asked how many of the youngsters played with fire.Several children sheepishly raised their hands.
Fough discussed the costs of a fire, describing the loss of schoolbooks, clothing, family valuables and homes.
She outlined the three-day programme of lessons in fire prevention, as well as tips for safe water sports and traffic awareness.
“Some people go to the beach and drown and don’t come back,” warned Harvey Hendrickson, divisional fire officer. “Don’t think you’re a fish and can’t drown.”
The top participant in the programe will be named “Fire Chief,” and win a trip to St. Kitts to participate in safety activities with other schoolchildren.
The program, which started in 2002, is designed to give children the skills they need to be safe, particularly during the summer months when many are home alone or have time on their hands.
Police, fire and fisheries department officials joined in offering lessons in fire, water and traffic safety.
The program ended today with a reception for parents and guardians of the participating children.
