By Emily Stifler Explorebigsky.com Managing Editor
BIG SKY – If you teach children about fire safety, it has a ripple affect, says Big Sky Fire Chief William Farhat.
That’s one of the reasons departments across the country go into elementary schools and daycares during Fire Prevention Week every year.
On Oct. 9, firefighters from the Big Sky department will visit Ophir School and Morningstar Learning Center, and do activities with the kids geared toward different grade levels.
“The funny thing is – we do this is and it helps the children, and also the families,” Farhat said. “The kids go home and scold their parents about bad practices. If we can teach them at a young age it keeps them safe and also sets the stage for them to be successful adults.”
Farhat hopes to add a wildland fire component this year for the first time, and estimates they’ll reach about 100 kids.
Fire Prevention Week takes place annually Oct. 7 – 13, marking the time period of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.
All codes and fire prevention practices are born out of tragedies, Farhat says.
“Pick a code, and someone died or properties were lost. We’re trying to teach good practices, because we’re trying to learn from others’ mistakes. If we can share that with the children from a young age, we’re doing well, we’re gaining ground quickly. Kids not only learn for themselves, they can share it at home and take it into adulthood.”
