Third, Fifth and sixth graders at The Dorset School (TDS) were gifted with a head start on National Fire Safety Week, which kicked-off officially on October 6th. A few days earlier, at the Manchester Community Library, they learned fire safety from the real experts: The United States Forest Service (USFS).
“The folks from USFS and the Library put on a great program for our kids,” said TDS science teacher Karli Love. “When you combine real learning with a degree of fun, everyone wins.”
The kids received basic tips on fire safety and forest management. The concept of prescribed burning, for example, was one lesson that fired up their imaginations. Forest Rangers explained how controlled burns clear the undergrowth in wooded landscapes. Better a small, managed fire than an out of control blaze.
The students were surprised to learn how various types of trees evolve or adapt to allow them to survive a forest fire. Some trees, for example, develop a thick, corky bark that protects inner tissue from heat damage. Other trees have longer roots that survive when a fire burns the surface roots. There are also trees that hold seeds in cones, which are released in the high heat of a fire and help set the stage for a new forest to grow.
The students enjoyed having the opportunity of handling real fire fighting equipment and trying on fire ranger gear. Water backpacks for putting out small fires were used to “water” small trees and shrubs on the Library grounds. Chainsaw chaps and fire jackets were just a few of the apparel items displayed at an impromptu fashion show.
In the category of unfinished business, one burning question remained on their minds: Would Smokey the Bear show up? The kids were spared the un-bear-able disappointment. Right on time, Smokey strode in to greet them, offering furry high fives all around.
(Photo above: Smokey the Bear greats TDS students with high fives at the Manchester Community Library.)
Students from The Dorset School get hands-on experience using forest fire fighting equipment.
Students from The Dorset School try on the latest in forest fire fighting gear.
The Dorset School students learn lessons in forest management practices.