MEDINA, Ohio — Safety Town is a rite of passage for many young children. And in Medina County, that includes kids who have special needs.
The Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities (MCBDD) hosted its 12th annual Safety Town Plus program at the Medina County Achievement Center June 23-27.
In past programs, 230 children have learned a variety of safe practices from the Medina County Sheriff’s Office, Akron Children’s Hospital and the Granger Fire Department.
On Wednesday (June 25), Lt. Johnathon Tibbs from the Granger Fire Department dressed in full firefighter’s gear — including boots, hat, coat, trousers and gas mask — to demonstrate to the children that even though he looked scary, they should not be frightened.
EMT Mark Cipriano explains the different fire hoses to kids participating in this year’s Medina County Safety Town Plus program.Mary Jane Brewer, special to cleveland.com
Each child gripped a small stuffed Dalmatian fire dog while they listened carefully and asked questions.
After moving outside, the children, who are going into kindergarten and first grade, had the opportunity to climb through the engine of a fire truck after EMT Mark Cipriano explained how the different hoses were used to extinguish fires.
After learning how the firefighters loaded a gurney into an ambulance, their next opportunity was to sit in the sheriff’s car and make loud noises with the horn and siren.
The schedule for the week included traffic safety, bike safety, when and how to call 911, the fire and sheriff’s department demonstrations, bus safety and evacuation, and pet safety — including visits by therapy dogs and mounted police.
The children appeared to enjoy the lessons and were offered lots of affection and support by the staff and teen volunteers.
Christie Kimbler, assistant director of dhildren’s services at MCBDD, explained how the program works by including activities, games, stories and crafts to demonstrate how to stay safe and make good choices during emergencies.
The children also were treated to a cool shower from a fire hose on the stiflingly hot midweek morning.
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