Apple Valley Fire Protection District’s Public Education Program is multi-dimensional. Some of the programs include: On Fire for Literacy, Fire Safety/Prevention Assemblies in Elementary and Pre-schools, Fire Extinguisher Training, and Station Tours. The AVFPD provides public education at community events as well. This can range from a static display of equipment to a booth with educational handouts.
On Fire for Literacy-This program is offered to AVUSD Elementary Schools as well as Private Schools in Apple Valley. Participating schools are assigned dates and times for firefighters to come and read to classes, typically grades TK thru 2nd.
Fire Safety/Prevention Assemblies– Fire Safety/Prevention Assemblies are offered to pre-schools, schools, church groups, as well as other community groups/organizations. Assemblies are typically 30-45 minutes in length, however can be tailored to a specific group.
Fire Extinguisher Training- Fire Extinguisher Training is offered to groups, usually no smaller than six at Station 336. A fifteen minute video is shown, the group then gets hands on experience with putting a fire out with an extinguisher. Groups provide their own extinguishers, unless other arrangements have been made. No certification is provided.
Station Tours– Tours can be tailored to specific groups to include lessons such as: Stop, Drop, and Roll; Crawl Low under the Smoke; and how to dial 9-1-1. Tour groups will experience a real working station, look at firefighting apparatus, and meet on duty firefighters (when available). Tour duration is typically 45-60 minutes. To schedule your tour contact Fire Inspector I Jennifer Eisenbrey at 247-7618 Ext. 113 or by e-mail at jeisenbrey@applevalleyfd.com, indicating “TOUR” in subject line. Requests should be made at a minimum of two weeks prior to the desired date and should include the following information:
- Name and/or Organization
- Contact Person and Phone Number
- Date of tour requested
- Time of Tour
- Number of attending and approximate age(s)
- Any special requests/requirements
- Station Number
(click on the Station address to locate the nearest station or the station you want to visit).
Station 331 Station 332
22400 Headquarters Drive 18857 Hwy 18
Station 334 Station 335
12143 Kiowa Road 21860 Tussing Ranch Road
Station 336 Station 337
19235 Yucca Loma Road 19305 Jess Ranch Pkwy
Stewie the Duck Learns to Swim – The program was started by a couple after the tragic drowning death of their 21 month old son on vacation. Fatal drowning remains the second-leading cause of unintentional injury-related death for children ages 1 to 14 years of age and drowning is the leading cause of death for infants and young children in 18 states.
Assemblies are scheduled for first grade classes in fall and then in spring for kindergarten classes. During the 15 minute program AVFPD staff read a story which includes a catchy tune. Stewie the Duck also joins the assembly and helps teach the valuable safety lessons.
It is the goal of the District to continue to prevent drowning and promote water safety throughout the community.
Other District Public Education Programs
Santa Visits the Schools– During two weeks in December, Santa arrives on a fire engine and passes out candy canes or pencils/stickers to participating schools. Although this is not an “educational” experience, it gives the students a chance to interact with the firefighters.
Other Great Public Education Links
