Crime & Safety
2nd Grader Gets the Royal Treatment from Fire Department
The ride is part of the fire department's outreach and education efforts.
Grand View Elementary student Mason Brown was given his first prize ride to school in a Manhattan Beach fire engine Tuesday morning.
The second grader won the special ride from home to school for his model of a "Home Escape Plan" based on his home.
Mason and friends greeted Manhattan Beach firefighters as they rolled up to his house, excitedly waving and jumping. After a brief visit with the firemen, Mason was put in the front passenger seat and given a headset so he could talk to the crew.
The "Home Escape Plan" contest is part of the Manhattan Beach Fire Department's recognition of National Fire Prevention Week in October. About six years ago, the department launched a campaign to promote fire safety and awareness with second graders, said Brian Yount of the Manhattan Beach Fire Department.
Every year in October, fire department personnel visit every second grade class in the city’s six elementary schools to discuss various fire safety topics. Students are encouraged to discuss what they've learned with their families, said Yount.
Students are taught the importance of having two escape routes out of every room in their house. They also learn about feeling a door for heat before opening it and the importance of crawling low to the ground while exiting to lower their risk from smoke. Students are also told of the importance of having a meeting place outside of the house so that every member of the family can be accounted for, said Yount.
Each student is given a packet of materials and instructions on how to create a “Home Escape Plan” in the event that a fire occurs in their home. Completed plans are entered into the contest.
One “Escape Plan” is selected from each school based on the thoughtfulness of the plan, said Yount. The grand prize distinction includes a fire department T-shirt and a ride to school on a Manhattan Beach fire engine with firefighters.
On Thursday, Yount and other Manhattan Beach firefighters will escort the final student winner to Meadows Elementary School.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
