Fire truck adventure

The children in my centre have been interested and forcusing on transport. We thought it would be a good idea to introduce them some of the emergency vehicles. Child B's dad is a fireman and we decided to ask him to come with the fire truck. We are very fortunate that he agreed. Today much to everyone's excitement the fire engine turned up in our driveway with B's dad and three other firemen inside. The children and treachers all rushed outside to have a look. Some of us were really excited about the new experience while serveral were not quite so sure.

B's dad tought us about fire safety and why we need smoke alarms in our homes and in our centre. This is to ensure that when the alarm goes on we know we can escape to a safe area. He asked the children, "Do you know where is your assembly point?" B immediately answered, "The sandpit!" B's dad said but remember it will be the letter box when we are at home. The firemen then opened the doors of the fire engine and we were allowed to climb inside and have a sit on the big back seat.

After we all had our turn, we lined up and watched as B's dad put on all the special fireman gear which included a helmet, jacket, pants and boots all made put of specail fire proof material. He then put on his BA or breathing apparatus which helps him to breathe in buildings that are on fire and covered with smoke. He sounded funny with his mask on and we encouraged the children to give him a hug while he was all dressed up.

As the firemen said good bye and drove off, they waved to us and put on the siren and lights for us. What a great experience! This link to Te Whariki, Belonging Strand states, "Children and their families experience an environment where connecting links with the families and the wider world are affirmed and extended" (Ministry of Education, 1996, p. 56).