Students in kindergarten through second grades at Mentone Elementary School got the chance to learn about fire safety the week of Oct. 9 through 13.

Four firemen from the Mentone Fire Department visited the school on Oct. 11 as part of Fire Prevention Week. The kids got an up-close look at a fire truck that was parked outside the school. They were able to walk around the truck and learn about how it operates and see inside each compartment.

The firefighters also gave them a demonstration inside the school about the gear they wear on calls and how it helps protect them. They also talked to the students about how to call 9-1-1 for help, how to create an escape plan in case there is a fire, and how to properly and safely get out of a burning building. The firefighters also ate lunch with the students and helped with a fire drill in the early afternoon.

Fire Prevention Week is a nationwide event that runs through Saturday, Oct. 14. This year’s theme is “Every Second Counts: Plan 2 Ways Out.”

You can see video of the kids’ experience by visiting the Mentone Elementary School Facebook page.