Public Education

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IN THE UNITED STATES, SOMEONE DIES IN A HOME FIRE EVERY 3 HOURS, AND SOMEONE IS INJURED EVERY HALF-HOUR.

ONE OF OUR BIGGEST PRIORITIES IS THE PREVENTION OF FIRES, ACCIDENTS AND INJURIES BEFORE THEY OCCUR.

THIS IS ACCOMPLISHED THROUGH FIRE PREVENTION AND PUBLIC EDUCATION.

BY EDUCATING OUR CUSTOMERS, WE CAN SAVE LIVES.

  • Fire Station Tours - Firefighters will take you on a tour of the fire station, talk about their job and show your group the fire trucks, firefighting equipment and specialized gear. Tours are one hour and are recommended for ages 4 and up.
  • Fire Truck Visits - Area schools can request a visit from the Fire Department as part of their fire safety curriculum. Firefighters discuss fire safety and show the fire engine and use of equipment.
  • Pre-School Programs - Children ages 3-5 are taught lessons in fire safety and how to call 9-1-1. These fun and informative programs incorporate songs, stories, videos and hands-on activities.
  • Fall and Fire Safety for our Older Adult Population: Each year, approximately 7,000 older adults, age 65 and older, die as a result of home falls, and an additional 1,000 die in their homes from fires or burns.

The Ephrata Fire Department has put together programs to address those needs. We offer presentations that cover the following: slip and fall prevention, cooking safety, smoke alarm maintenance, escape plans and call 911.

  • Civic Groups/Homeowner: A variety of fire safety programs are available to adult audiences.

The fire safety program is designed for the homeowner as well as those who live in apartments, townhouses or condos. Topics covered include: fires statistics and facts; prevention measures; what to do in case of a fire; what to do after a fire has occurred in your home; and what services the Fire Department offers. Additional information regarding proper placement of smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and drafting and practicing an evacuation plan will be covered.

  • Businesses: Many of the nation's annual 5,000 business fires could be prevented if companies and employees followed basic on-the-job safety practices. EFD has put together a program designed to assist employers and their employees in workplace safety. Topics that are covered include electrical & equipment safety, keeping exits and stairways clear, evacuation plans and fire extinguishers.

Federal Regulations require that employers who provide portable fire extinguishers in the workplace must also provide training in the proper use of extinguishers. Used properly, portable fire extinguishers can save lives and property by putting out a small fire in the workplace or containing one until the fire department arrives.

  • Health and Safety Fairs: EFD is also available to participate in your company's or group's health and safety fair to address a variety of topics including fire safety, disaster preparedness and child safety.

For more information regarding life safety education and training, please call 754-4666.