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Watson third-graders tour fire truck 154
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With the help of fellow firefighter John Racco (right), Fred Marcum showed the students how a firefighter might look when entering a home. “Although they might look scary,” Marcum assured them, “they are there to save you.”
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After a successful presentation, fireman Fred Marcum posed with his son, Blake, who is a student at Watson elementary.
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To make sure the children were properly acquainted with a suited-up firefighter, John Racco moved through the crowd so the children could touch his uniform.
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Fred Marcum (right) is a firefighter for the Austintown’s Engine 154, and father of Watson student Blake Marcum. He said that, for his son, he was happy to share fire safety tips with Watson second-graders.
By SARAH FOOR
At one time or another growing up, almost every little boy wants to be a firefighter when he grows up. On Nov. 10, third-graders at Watson Elementary got a taste of what that means.
The school got a visit from Austintown Fire Department’s Engine 154 truck and students had the opportunity to learn all about fire safety and prevention. Fireman Fred Marcum aimed to teach the third-graders everything they needed to know about the fire department, including when firemen are needed, how to call 911, and what will happen if the children are ever in a fire emergency.
“Younger kids, like all of you and your younger brothers and sisters, are the most likely to be afraid of us,” he said.
After fellow fireman John Racco dressed in his full fire gear, Marcum explained with a laugh, “he might look and sound like Darth Vader, but don’t be scared if you see someone dressed like this.”
Marcum shared valuable information on how to escape from a house during a fire, and then gave an extensive tour through Engine 154’s fire truck, pointing out tools and levers and hoses along the way.
As the students thanked the firemen for their time, Marcum sent a shout-out to a special third-grader.
“You’re welcome. I’m just happy to do it for my son, Blake, and his Watson classmates.”