Kids taught to ‘scream and shout’ for fire safety

A new Fire Education program for Queensland schools will urge children to ‘scream and shout’ when in fire danger.

Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts and Member for Yeerongpilly Simon Finn launched the new program at Wellers Hill State School today.

"The ‘Don’t hide: scream and shout’ program is aimed at grade one students and delivers a very important fire safety message," Mr Roberts said.

"Traditional lessons such as ‘get down low and go, go, go’, ‘get out and stay out’ and ‘stop, drop and roll’ will continue to be taught to the students, but ‘don’t hide: scream and shout’ urges kids to immediately let everyone know of a potential fire danger.

"Some children get confused in dangerous situations and their natural tendency is to hide. By teaching kids to scream and shout firefighters will have a much better chance of finding the child when conducting searches."

The program costs approximately $135,000 and will be delivered to more than 45,000 students each year.

Mr Finn said while the Fire Ed program has existed in schools for more than 12 years, the revamped version includes more added features for teachers and students.

It also incorporates a visit by firefighters to schools to teach students about the importance of fire safety for themselves and their family.

"The QFRS has worked with Prism Education to tailor the program to ensure that it meets teacher’s needs," Mr Finn said.

"The new added features for students include a ‘big book’ detailing important safety messages, a bright booklet to take home for the family and a certificate of completion of the program."

"The program has always been well received by children, they are always eager to learn fire safety life skills and the new program will ensure students get the most out of the lessons."

Anyone wishing to learn more about the Fire Ed program or general fire safety can visit www.fire.qld.gov.au or contact your local fire station.