On April 14, 2010, IFLC held a "Safety Day" at the learning center, and what a day it was. The excitement began at 9:45 am when the Iva Fire Department rolled into our parking lot with a Firetruck and Smokehouse. Following in suit were the Iva Rescue Squad, Iva Police Department, and the Calhoun Falls K-9 Unit. As the vehicles took their place, the children excitedly made their way down the hall; they were stopped at the front door. "What is that noise, Ms. LeAnne?" said one of the children. As they looked for the source, their eyes were full of surprise as they saw the AnMed Helicopter land in the open field right beyond the learning center's door.
Needless to say, there was more than a "buzz" in the air. Even the teachers were squirming to catch a glimpse at all the excitement. As the firemen, policemen, and rescue men made their way around their "exhibits", the children formed groups in which they were to tour each one. They climbed up the firetruck, sat in the front (and back) of the police car, toured the ambulance, wore the radio helmet of the helicopter pilot, and sat in the driver seat of the helicopter. They also went into the smoke house (teachers too!) where they were given a lesson on fire safety and tested on the things they were taught.
Lesson 1: Get away from the fire. Have a meeting place. Safe and away from the fire!
Lesson 2: Use the back of your hand to feel for heat sources.
Lesson 3: If possible, call 911
Lesson 4: Crawl on hands and knees where there is smoke.
Lesson 5: NEVER go back inside for missing people. Wait for the firemen.
After touring all the vehicles, the Calhoun Falls K-9 Unit gave a presentation with their K-9 Officer Nero. All the children thought he was cute upon seeing him, but soon realized he was not only cute, but very smart. Lt. Hunnicutt and Nero are a team and together they fight crime. Nero showed us how he finds items that are hidden, and also how he can attack; all on command. There was much applause at the end of the show.
IFLC would like to show appreciation to everyone who was involved in making this day very special for our children. Your time and patience with our children spoke volumes for the character that each of these organizations have. Thank you!
