Kids Learn Safety with Police, Fire [PHOTOS]

[Editor's note: The following information derives from a press statement submitted by the Melrose Mayor's Office.]

On July 8, 9 and 10th, 50 four-to-six year olds had fun learning and exploring topics such as Fire Attire, Weather Worries, and Bicycle Safety during a three-day adventure at the Melrose Common Tot Lot.  

Water safety, first aid, and how to approach a dog were other topics that experts from YMCA, Melrose-Wakefield Hospital and Canine Control discussed with the children. At the end of the program, the children walked away with new safety skills and sticker filled passports showing all that they accomplished.

“Safety Town is a great way for children to learn important lessons in a familiar environment,” said Mayor Rob Dolan, who co-sponsored the program. “It’s fun for them at the time, but these lessons have a serious purpose, to teach our children how to avoid danger and how to react appropriately in a variety of different situations. I particularly want to thank our police officers and firefighters who worked with the children.”

“I want to thank all parents and organizations who supported this program,” Dolan said, “including the Police Department, the Fire Department, the Recreation Department, the Department of Public Works, the Health Department, our Animal Control Officer, Diane Kurkjian, Mass in Motion, Melrose-Wakefield Hospital, the Melrose Family YMCA, Walk Boston, North Shore Marital Arts Center, Madison Avenue of Melrose and Sheffield Advisors. A very special thanks to our program coordinator Lisa Gentile!”