Kids visit GR fire station

The children excitedly entered the Green River Fire Department, not quite sure what to expect.

For most of them, this was the first time being inside a fire department.

On Wednesday, both classes from the Green River Co-op Preschool had the opportunity to visit the fire department during National Fire Prevention Week.

As the children entered a classroom, GRFD fire prevention chief Tom Murphy greeted the children.

Murphy then asked the preschoolers who they should call if there was a fire. Some children shouted "911."

"That's right," he said.

Murphy then talked to the children about when it's appropriate to call 911 and when it's not.

He then asked one of the parents to try on a firefighting gear and walk around the classroom, so children could see how thick and heavy the suit was.

He then told the class Sparky the Fire Dog was going to tell them even more information on fire prevention and safety through a video called "ABC's of Fire Safety."

The video instructed children on what to do if their fire alarm went off, which was to get out of the house as fast as they can and go to their family's designated meeting place. It's important to pick a place that doesn't move, such as a tree or light post.

Children learned they should practice getting to a designated area at least twice a year.

After the video was over, Murphy talked to the children about the importance of getting out of the house quickly and staying out.

"I need you guys to make me a promise," Murphy said. "If there's a fire, don't go back in for toys or pets."

Murphy said cats and dogs can get out of house on their own, however they have saved fish and snakes before.

After the fire safety portion of the visit was over, the children made their way to the fire trucks where they had the chance to climb in a truck and look around. The fire truck tour ended with the children ringing the fire bell on the truck and posing for a group photo.

Before leaving the department, the children were given red, plastic fire hats and coloring books. Murphy asked them what sound a fire truck made and the children started making the sound. He told them to make that sound on their walk back to the preschool, which is on the same block. Murphy laughed as the children made their way down the street making the firetruck siren noise.