Second- and third-grade students from Negreet recently visited the Central Sabine Fire Department for an educational field trip featuring hands-on activities, emergency response demonstrations and important lessons in fire prevention and public safety.
The visit marked the second consecutive year Negreet students have participated in the field trip, which brought together firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical personnel and fire safety officials to provide an interactive learning experience.
Joining the Central Sabine Fire Department were representatives from the Many Police Department, Acadian Ambulance Service and the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office.
The morning began with educational presentations introducing students to emergency services and the importance of safety awareness.
One of the highlights was a special appearance by Chief Sparky, the fire department’s newest chief and fire safety character, who helped teach students several important lessons.
Chief Sparky emphasized the importance of calling 911 during emergencies, having working smoke alarms in the home and practicing the stop, drop and roll technique. Students also learned about the different components of a firefighter’s protective equipment.
A department captain demonstrated a two-minute drill, giving students an opportunity to see how firefighters prepare for emergency responses.
Following the presentations, students rotated through several interactive learning stations designed to introduce them to the equipment and responsibilities of emergency responders.
Acadian Ambulance Service personnel allowed students and teachers to explore an ambulance, learn about emergency medical equipment and experience how a stretcher operates.
Many Police Department officers demonstrated a law enforcement drone, allowing students to examine the equipment and interact with its control console.
Ladder 12 Aerial Apparatus provided students with an up-close look at one of the department’s specialized firefighting vehicles.
During the demonstration, a firefighter climbed to the end of the aerial ladder while another explained its purpose and discussed important ladder safety precautions.
Hose and Nozzle Station activities gave students an opportunity to operate a fire hose and spray water while learning about different nozzle patterns and how firefighters use them during emergencies. The station proved to be one of the most popular activities of the day.
Fire Extinguisher Station instruction introduced students to the acronym PASS, which stands for Pull, Aim, Squeeze and Sweep. A department captain demonstrated the proper operation of a fire extinguisher, while several teachers and parents also participated in the hands-on training.
Throughout the visit, students were encouraged to ask questions, explore emergency equipment and interact with the professionals who serve their community.
The Central Sabine Fire Department expressed appreciation to its community partners for helping make the field trip an educational and memorable experience.
Department officials also thanked Negreet students and teachers for returning for a second year, noting that the annual visit continues to grow as an opportunity to promote safety awareness among young residents.
The department said it looks forward to welcoming Negreet students again next year.
The event highlighted the importance of cooperation among local emergency response agencies while providing students with practical safety knowledge they can carry into their homes, schools and communities.