Events scheduled for fire safety month

WASILLA -- Wasilla area fire stations have a busy schedule of educational events for the remainder of October, which is nationally designated as Fire Safety Month.

According to Denise McGowen, who coordinates the events in the Wasilla area, firefighters from Central Mat-Su Fire Department, some in fire trucks, will be visiting all Wasilla area schools to conduct educational assemblies for the students.

"Firefighters will be wearing their bunker gear, the protective trousers and jackets that we wear, as well as air packs, masks and other protective gear," said McGowen, who serves as the Support Services Coordinator for area fire stations.

In addition to the assemblies, McGowen said tours of the fire stations are being arranged for pre-schools and daycare centers.

"We actually conduct tours throughout the year," McGowen said, "but there is a special emphasis during Fire Safety Month."

Among the scheduled events are the Halloween open houses that will be held at three Wasilla area fire stations on Thursday, Oct. 31, from 6 to 10 p.m.

The open houses will be held at the Cottonwood Creek Public Safety Building located near the intersection of the Palmer Wasilla and Seward Meridian Highways, the Central Public Safety Building located at Swanson and Lucille, and Station 62, located at Mile 7 Knik-Goose Bay Road.

Parents and educators desiring more information about Fire Safety Month educational events conducted by Wasilla fire department personnel can call 373-8800 for events and schedules.

Palmer Fire Chief Dan Contini is busy with special fire safety education events throughout the borough, as well, though he points out that "Fire safety education isn't just for October. We do programs throughout the year."

Katie the robot fire truck will be making appearances at area schools to entertain and educate children about fire safety. In addition, firefighters visit the schools and go into the classrooms to bring fire safety information directly to the children.

Anyone desiring information about scheduling for the Palmer-sponsored events should contact 745-3330.