SOUTH RANGE -- Firefighters set up simulated smoke machines in the hallways of the Adams Township Elementary School.
Students crawled out of their classrooms to understand the importance of what to do in case of a fire.
"I think with the firemen around, it makes it a lot more effective. We do annual fire drills, but with the firemen available and the fire trucks here," said schools principal, Kim Harris, "I think it is a lot more realistic for the students."
This annual event is part of Fire Prevention Week.
Students learned the correct way to stop, drop, and roll, and they were reminded to cover up their faces with their hands. Students were also able to go inside a first responder vehicle and also fire trucks.
Firefighters can also use a soapy foam-water mixture, which basically smothers the fire and puts it out quicker.
These simulations help prepare students for many different situations.
"We're smoking a school bus because school busses can start on fire, and our kids are on school busses most of the day and, of course, we want to make sure that they know how to exit a bus correctly if the bus was to start on fire and how to get out," said Firefighter EMT, Annette Butina.
If a child is unable to exit a school bus, a thermal imaging camera allows firefighters to see through the smoke. It reads body heat and makes it easier for rescue, even if kids are trying to hide.
This demonstration teaches youngsters how to be safe and to always know at least two exits out of a house.
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