USAG DAEGU, South Korea -- United States Army Garrison Daegu held the National Fire Prevention Open House in the observance of Fire Prevention Week 2017, Oct. 14, at the Camp Walker Kelly Field. To remind local residents of the vital importance of fire and other public safety, USAG Daegu Fire and Emergency Services prepared several events including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), vehicle extrication demonstration and fun activities for the family.
"Fire Prevention Week Open House is all about bringing the community together, help parents teach their kids about fire safety, and show them what we do on a daily basis," said Michael P. Diehl, USAG Daegu Fire and Emergency Services fire chief. "
Open House kicked off with a fire truck parade starting at Camp George and arriving at Camp Walker Kelly Field. At the Kelly Field, 14 booths were set up with numerous activities for kids to enjoy such as a fire safety trailer, bouncy houses, fire truck display, kid's firefighter relay, face painting, and balloon animals. These booths were planned and coordinated not only by the fire department but several different organizations on and off post.
"I am a volunteer from Daegu Citizen Rescue Corporations and I am here to teach CPR," said Han, Min-seok, Gyeng-san high school student. "Thanks to our chief being a good friend with one of the firefighters in USAG Daegu, our team had a chance to volunteer at this event. It was interesting to meet so many different people and I am glad that I could share my knowledge with other kids and families."
The vehicle extrication demonstration was the highlight of the Open House. Introducing the public to hydraulic rescue tools, also known as the 'Jaws of Life', the fire department conducted an emergency rescue drill applicable to vehicle extrication of crash victims, as well as other rescues from small spaces. With the assistance from the fire fighters, volunteers including the USAG Daegu Commander Col. Robert P. Mann Jr. and Command Sgt. Maj. Juan A. Abreu got a chance to use the tools to cut, press and spread the damage vehicles.
Throughout the Fire Prevention Week, Facility Evacuation Drills and Extinguisher Training was carried out to reinforce fire and safety awareness to the community. Alongside with the training, Sparky the Fire Dog, official mascot of the National Fire Protection Association visited Directors of the Army Staff and Child and Youth Services at Camp Walker.
"The main thing is just awareness," said Diehl. "Bring that education to people and be aware of what you are doing and what your surroundings are."
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