As we prepare for Fire Prevention Month, I want to thank each of you for the time and energy you dedicate to educating the youth of Charles County. The impact we make in the classroom can last a lifetime, and often it’s the knowledge we pass on that saves lives when an emergency occurs.

To keep our messaging consistent and effective across the county, I’ve outlined below the essential topics, skills, and tips you can use when engaging with children. Please adapt based on the age group you’re teaching, but ensure these key messages remain clear.

Elementary School Talking Points
Stop, Drop, and Roll – Demonstrate the proper way to stop, drop, cover your face, and roll if clothing catches fire.

Crawl Low Under Smoke – Teach why crawling is safer during a fire and practice the technique.

Knowing Two Ways Out – Stress the importance of identifying at least two escape routes at home and school.

Smoke Alarms Save Lives – Teach children to recognize the sound of a smoke alarm and alert an adult immediately.

Home Escape Plans – Encourage families to practice a home fire escape plan and designate a safe meeting place.

Calling 911 – Practice what to say when calling 911: name, address, type of emergency.

Matches and Lighters Are Tools, Not Toys – Reinforce that only adults should handle matches, lighters, or candles.

Kitchen Safety Basics – Teach children never to touch the stove or hot surfaces.

Firefighters Are Friends – Show turnout gear and SCBA so children understand we are helpers, not someone to hide from.

Seasonal Safety Reminders – Remind kids about space heater safety, candle safety, and holiday fire risks.

Expanding into Middle Schools – Kitchen Safety Focus
This year, I’ve chosen not to limit our visits to elementary schools alone. I’ve started extending my efforts to middle schools, and I strongly encourage you to do the same if your schedule allows. Here’s why:

More middle schoolers are home alone after school. Many prepare snacks unsupervised using microwaves or air fryers.

Cooking remains the leading cause of home structure fires. NFPA data shows cooking accounts for nearly half of all home fires.

Microwave-related injuries are significant. One study found over 10,900 microwave burn injuries in young children over an 11-year span, most caused by kids handling hot food or liquids.

Air fryer use is rapidly increasing—and so are related risks. Several models have been recalled for overheating and fire hazards. External surfaces can reach dangerous temperatures, causing burns or igniting nearby items.

Middle School Talking Points
Safe Appliance Use – Never leave microwaves or air fryers unattended; keep combustibles away.

Microwave Safety – Only use microwave-safe containers, stir liquids, and be careful with steam burns.

Air Fryer Safety – Follow manufacturer instructions, clean frequently, don’t overfill baskets, and avoid use in enclosed spaces.

Emergency Steps – Teach what to do if food or an appliance catches fire: turn it off if safe, never use water on grease/electrical fires, and evacuate to call 911.

Scenario Questions – Ask “What would you do if…” to get them thinking critically about real situations.

Tips for Engaging with Children of All Ages
Use Demonstrations – Show techniques like stop, drop, and roll, or crawling under smoke.

Be Interactive – Ask questions instead of just lecturing.

Match the Message to the Age – Simple hands-on activities for younger kids; practical scenarios for middle schoolers.

Use Visuals – Props, gear, smoke alarms, or coloring sheets can make lessons stick.

Keep It Positive & Focused – Encourage participation, reinforce good answers, and keep lessons clear and concise.

Expectations & Support
If your schedule allows, I encourage you to add middle schools in your first-due area to your prevention visits, just as I am doing.

If you don’t have the resources or manpower to visit a school, daycare, or center in your area, please let me know. I will do my best to assist you—either by coordinating manpower or stepping in myself.

Final Thoughts
Remember, we are not just teaching fire safety—we are building trust and shaping how these children will respond in an emergency. Whether in elementary classrooms or middle school cafeterias, a few minutes of our time can prevent a lifetime of tragedy. Thank you for your continued dedication to this mission.

Stay safe and keep making a difference.

Tre A. Proctor
Fire Prevention Officer
Charles County Volunteer Fire & EMS Association
📞 (301) 535-9323
✉️ Tre.proctor@phvfd.com
🌐 www.ccvfireems.org

"Educating today to prevent tomorrow’s tragedies"