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Fire safety education program gets a boost

The City of Richmond unveiled its new, state-of-the-art, mobile public education trailer which is expected to boost community safety through fire and life safety education programs for all ages. The ribbon-cutting unveiling event took place Nov.
Fire safety education
A Richmond firefighter assists a youngster in dousing a mock fire inside the city’s new fire safety education trailer, which provides programs for all ages. The trailer houses training rooms that can replicate a variety of emergency situations. Photo submitted

The City of Richmond unveiled its new, state-of-the-art, mobile public education trailer which  is expected to boost community safety through fire and life safety education programs for all ages.

The ribbon-cutting unveiling event took place Nov. 1 at Richmond’s No. 1 Fire Hall.

 “This mobile education trailer is the first of its kind in British Columbia,” said Mayor Malcolm Brodie. “Our purchase of it is a direct result of council’s priority to community safety; Fire-Rescue’s goal of service excellence in prevention, education and emergency response; and Canadian Western Bank’s generous contribution to our community. Public education in fire prevention and life safety enables us, together, to enhance our City’s overall safety and liveability.”

The fire and life safety mobile trailer includes emergency training rooms set up like a kitchen and bedroom with mock furnishings, appliances and interactive props that replicate a variety of emergency response situations.

With simulated flames, smoke and sound effects, students can use a laser fire extinguisher to put out simulated fires. They can also learn how to escape from a room.

 “Our partnership with the City of Richmond is consistent with Canadian Western Bank’s commitment to support and strengthen the communities where we live and work,” said Michael Yeung, CWB’s Assistant Vice President and Branch Manager in Richmond.

“We’re also excited for the opportunity to further enrich the quality of life for all citizens in Richmond and take pride in actively participating in the growth, development and sustainability of the communities where we operate. We’re pleased to offer our financial support to City of Richmond and Richmond Fire Rescue for the development of the Mobile Education Trailer”.

In January 2015, the $123,000 education trailer will be integrated into existing events programs such as Fire Prevention Week and Salmon Festival. The trailer will also be used in school and community outreach education programs and events. The type of hands on education it provides is an effective tool that increases safety awareness and contributes to lifelong learning.

 For more information visit www.richmond.ca/safety/firerescue.htm.