Elementary and Middle School Program

In 1988 the Nassau Academy's Public Education Division began designing a realistic mobile scaled down replica of a two story house which could be used as a teaching tool for both children and adults. Construction of this unique vehicle was a "class project" for high school students enrolled in Nassau County's Board of Cooperative Educational Services Trade and Technical Program. This project and program became an instant success!

School programs begins with the introduction and/or review of the following fire safety concepts and behaviors contained in the National Fire Protection Associations Learn Not To Burn curriculum:

• The installation and maintenance of smoke detectors or, as in the case of children, encourage others (adults) to do so.
• Reporting fir and smoke immediately (calling the fire department)
• Performing the crawl low in smoke procedure
• Developing and practicing a home escape plan

Student participating activities conducted within the Fire Safety House Trailer under simulated fire conditions include testing a closed door to determine if it safe to open, escaping by climbing out a first floor window, escaping by climbing out a second floor window onto a porch roof and then down a fire department ladder to the ground, and crawling on the floor under a layer of smoke at ceiling level

Students perform the above activities is small groups accompanied by an instructor who assists them trough each step. All activities inside the Fire Safety House Trailer are viewed over closed circuit TV by the rest if the class seated outside.

The purpose of simulating fire conditions is to present students with a problem which they can respond to quickly and correctly. Red and orange strobe lights are used to represent flame. A theatrical fog machine is used to produce "smoke" which is certified by the manufacturer as being non-toxic. Student exposure to the "smoke" is minimal. Our instructors are constantly alert for students who appear apprehensive about any part of the experience. These students are tactfully encouraged to participate, not forced!

At the conclusion of the program homework is given! First the students are requested to tell the adults at home what they did in school today and to have them test their smoke detectors. Second, they are asked to take home a brochure for adults on smoke detectors and escape planning. Third, students are given materials from McDonald's Corporation so they and their parents can develop an escape plan for their own home. If the family develops a viable escape plan and sends it back to school to show the teacher, the student can get a free cheeseburger at McDonald's.

The Fire Safety Trailer visits Nassau County public, private, and parochial schools during the months of March, April, May, June, September, October, and November. We can deliver six classes a day, five days a week.

For Additional information contact:

Ms. Irene Pultorak
Nassau County Fire Academy
899-A Jerusalem Avenue
Uniondale, NY 11553
Phone: 516-572-1700 | Fax: 516-572-1703