Being a history buff, I often wonder if the parents of the “Greatest Generation” had any premonition of what their children would face and accomplish as adults.
As a parent, how do you know if you are properly preparing your children for their future? What skills and aptitudes will they need? How will the decisions we make affect the world our children will inherit? What can we do today to fortify their future?
The Violet Township Fire Department (VTFD) is invested in the children of our community. As public servants, the membership of VTFD realizes and understands the responsibility we have in providing for the safety and the increased awareness of the community. This is especially relevant when it comes to children.
Members of the fire department have actively participated in safety talks and tours at the fire
houses, schools, community events and birthday parties. In conjunction with the Pickerington Local School District, the VTFD helps organize and run the Holiday Toy Drive. The VTFD offers car seat installation and provides juvenile fire-setter consultations. The department strives to find ways to update and enhance our safety services and messages.
Though most elementary school-aged children are eager to see the fire trucks and firefighters, it often is more difficult for us to effectively reach out to and communicate with the junior high- and high school-aged crowd. The VTFD has found ways to interact with these age groups through participation in organizations and functions such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, Exploring and the former Mentorship Program. The department has also had success teaching a “Baby-Sitters” first aid and CPR class.
The interactions with the youth of the community have proven to be a valuable tool. On several occasions, our crews have arrived on a scene to find the child of the residence has been the one to initiate a 9-1-1 call, start CPR or react in a manner that made a significant difference in a safe outcome of the incident. Kids are smart and often remain calm in moments of crisis and chaos.
As we near fall, we grow closer to fire safety month and the annual fire department Open House (Oct. 11). Please honor us with the privilege of showing you the Violet Township Fire Department. One of the youthful visitors may grow to be the chief one day.
