The Scott Fire Department has received a grant to improve its fire prevention program.
The SFD has been awarded almost $3,000 to get a Sparky the Fire Dog costume for use in children's educational and prevention programs.
As with most volunteer fire departments, Scott Fire Department was originally established years ago (in 1955) to provide fire suppression. As time evolved, SFD officials have come to the conclusion that educating the public, especially high-risk target groups such as children, on fire safety and how to survive in the event of fire drastically reduces fire related emergencies and deaths as a result of fire.
The purpose of the Fire Prevention and Safety Grant Program is to enhance the safety of the public and firefighters with respect to fire and fire-related hazards by assisting fire prevention programs.
Sparky the Fire Dog costume is an effective tool in teaching safety awareness and fire safety programs because it is fun, effective and interactive.
"On Wednesday, FEMA announced that SFD was awarded nearly $3,000 to obtain a Sparky Costume to assist in educating an estimated 3,000 children (4 elementary schools and 6 daycares) in our district, which will enhance the way we teach fire prevention and safety awareness, drastically reducing accidental fires, possibly even saving lives," says Chief Chad Sonnier.
