Southside Elementary students recently participated in an engaging Fire Prevention and Safety assembly led by local first responders. The event provided students with an up-close look at the gear, tools, and vehicles firefighters use to keep the community safe.
During the presentation, students gathered to learn about fire safety practices and had the opportunity to ask questions directly to the firefighters. They were especially curious about the equipment, asking:
How long does the air last in a firefighter’s tank? Approximately 40 minutes.
How heavy is the equipment? About 60 pounds.
What is the piece that hangs from the tank? It connects to the mask so firefighters can breathe from the air tank.
How does water get to a house fire? Through a long hose attached to the fire truck.
Students also observed what a fully equipped firefighter looks like, helping them understand that firefighters may appear different in an emergency but are there to help. Outside, students toured both a pumper truck and a tanker truck, while firefighters explained the many pieces of equipment carried on each vehicle.
The assembly was led by Zach Spohr, Southside Elementary School Resource Officer, with support from Bobby Tate of the Independence County Sheriff’s Office and Batesville Fire Department, and Tyler Toland of the Southside Fire Department.
Southside Elementary extends its appreciation to these local agencies for providing a valuable, hands-on learning experience for students and reinforcing the importance of fire safety in our community.