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Above and Beyond: GIFC 2019 fire prevention theme stresses 'Plan & Practice Your Escape'

Sat, Oct 5th 2019 07:00 am

Ray Pauley

Public Information Officer

Grand Island Fire Co.

The Grand Island Fire Co. joins with the National Fire Protection Association in recognizing that “Not Every Hero Wears a Cape: Plan and Practice Your Escape.”

Lorraine Carli, vice president of outreach and advocacy at NFPA, notes that advance planning can make a substantial life-saving difference because newer homes burn faster than ever during a fire emergency due to the type of open construction and materials used. The fire service will therefore pursue a strenuous public education campaign during Fire Prevention Week Oct. 6 through 12.

GIFC Assistant Fire Chief Dan Mathes, the fire prevention program coordinator, stated that fire fighter and EMS teams will visit Grand Island elementary schools on Oct. 8 and 9 to offer fire safety tips. Meanwhile, Sidway Elementary School students will visit fire headquarters on Thursday, Oct. 10, to gain first-hand knowledge of fire company operations and engage in ‘’hands on” safety exercises. A special “Ride to School in a Fire Truck” drawing will also take place.

The fire prevention open house will take place from 5 to 8 p.m. on Oct. 10 and will include fire and EMS displays, demonstrations, and multi-agency participation.

The GIFC Ladies Auxiliary will provide refreshments, including a hamburger-hot dog roast, at a nominal cost, while conducting their ever-popular basket raffle.

Fire Chief Matt Osinski stated that of the 1,307 GIFC responses to date, only one major fire has occurred, with no serious injuries or fatalities. He hopes that this encouraging trend will be bolstered by a successful fire prevention program.

Accordingly, please set aside some quality time to meet with your GIFC volunteers and friends at the upcoming open house.

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