Pupils learn the importance of fire safety

Briar Chemicals firefighters paid a special visit to Mile Cross Primary School to help pupils learn about fire safety as part of their Great Fire of London project.

The eager youngsters were thrilled to meet Fire Safety Officer, Sam Fisher, to learn about fire safety in the home. As part of the fire safety education for children in local primary schools, Briar Chemicals use their training and expertise to deliver key messages, in a reassuring way, to make sure children understand the importance of fire safety.

Year 2 pupils have been learning about the Great Fire of London, which swept through the central parts of London in September 1666. The children made a model village, including the bakery in Pudding Lane where the fire started, which Sam used to show the children the dangers of how quickly fire can spread.

Stuart Allen, Head Teacher said: “It’s great for our children to receive a visit from a Fire Officer at Briar Chemicals. From barbecues to bonfires, outdoor events happen all year round and for a lot of people, lighting a fire is a great addition to the atmosphere and the event itself. However, just as fire safety is important indoors, it is also crucial that we take all relevant precautions for outdoor fires, too.”

Having the opportunity to listen to a Fire Officer and fire safety messages, as well as having a go in a Fire Engine, is something that will have a lasting impression on the children and hopefully help them to stay safe around fire.

120 pupils, aged 5-6 year old, at Mile Cross Primary were treated to an up-close look at a real fire engine and all the equipment. The children pretended to be part of the fire crew and sat inside the fire engine whilst firefighter Sam turned on the sirens. They also had the opportunity to aim the water hose and knock a ball off a cone in the playground.

Briar Chemicals’ Fire Safety Officer, Sam Fisher, said:

We work with local schools to educate young people about fire safety; helping them to identify potentials hazards and learn how to stay safe from fire. These visits are an effective way of delivering an important message, in a fun and memorable way.

Fire safety advice is available on the Norfolk Fire Service website; www.norfolkfireservice.gov.uk