Above: Lakeside Lutheran student Ethan found the siren rather loud.
LAKESIDE Lutheran College prep students had VIP access to Pakenham’s new fire station on Monday.
The children took part in the Country Fire Authority’s (CFA) Home Fire Safety House program at the precinct’s learning centre.
The students learnt basic fire strategies, such as Stop Drop and Roll and the importance of crawling low in smoke. They also had the chance to inspect fire trucks and equipment.
Program coordinator Cathryn Gillian said it was important for children to be familiar with what the CFA was about.
“It’s important to familiarise kids, especially younger ones, with what firefighters look like, what the fire truck looks like so they are at ease with it,” she said.
“There’s been some cases where kids have been afraid of the breathing apparatus – it can look like Darth Vader when you put it on.”
Last year, 3268 residential fires were recorded in Victoria, and latest statistics indicate that one in five Australians will experience a house fire in their lifetime.
The aim of the Home Fire Safety House program is to reduce this statistic.
The learning centre features several simulated home environments, interactive multimedia and CFA personnel delivering various sessions in the centre.
Miss Gillian said the program was usually aimed at grade three and four students but could be tailored to suit.
She said schools and school holiday program providers could book sessions by contacting her on 0400 853 799 or by emailing c.gillian@cfa.vic.gov.au.
