Firefighters visit with students during Fire Prevention Week

This week, members of the Thermopolis Volunteer Fire Department have been going to various schools to talk to students about fire safety; students have also be visiting at the fire hall itself. Among the topics addressed are escape routes, flammable substances, and practicing the stop, drop and roll method. There’s been plenty of time for fun as well, with up close looks and rides on the fire trucks and experience spraying the hose.

Thursday evening, the fire department will also partner with Pizza Hut, delivering pizzas using the truck, as well as smoke detector batteries and furnace filter coupons. Fire Chief Mark Collins noted this is the time of year for people to check the batteries in their smoke detectors and replace them if necessary.

So far this year, the TVFD has responded to 89 calls, as of Tuesday. Collins said the department averages about 115 calls per year. The department has 29 personnel at this time, Collins said. Those interested in joining the department are encouraged to show up to three or four of the regular Tuesday night trainings, to see if it’s something they want to do. Collins noted the second Tuesday of each month is reserved for a business meeting.

Those who decide the fire department is for them will be voted on to join. They must then go through a six-month probationary period before a second vote as to whether they will become full-time members. Department members are also required to maintain at least 50 percent attendance of the Tuesday trainings.

Collins said the activities with the schools have been going well, and he’s heard a lot of positive comments.

Fire Prevention Week commemorates the Great Chicago Fire, and is celebrated the week on which Oct. 9 falls. The first presidential proclamation of Fire Prevention Week was in 1925.