A group of six Year Six and Year Five pupils from Long Toft Primary School in Stainforth, Doncaster, have received training in fire safety and will now be passing their new knowledge on to their classmates, families and others in their community.
And in the run up to Bonfire Night, they will have an even more vital role to play in keeping themselves and others safe. They will be telling their parents about the dangers at this time of year, as part of a Government campaign warning 'have-a-go' dads about the risks posed by using fireworks. The message to those in charge of displays is: "Take more responsibility with fireworks - they are more dangerous than you think and could severely injure children or yourself."
The youngsters were selected for South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue's 'Fire Watch Crew' after firefighters visited the school to explain the impact and dangers of fire, arson and other issues such as antisocial behaviour. The group now has the responsibility to work with local fire safety officers and pass the message on at school, at home and in their community.
The initiative is being piloted at four schools in the area covered by Thorne Fire Station. If the scheme is successful, it could be rolled out to schools across South Yorkshire.
