How can two simple windows help 15,000 people?
Tim Webb of the Flat Rock Fire Department knows.
The department operates an obstacle course to teach kids and families about fire safety. For the second time since the project launched in 2010, Wallside has donated windows to be used on the course. Webb estimates about 15,000 people have used those windows over the years, climbing through them as part of a demonstration showing the importance of finding two ways to escape a home in case of a fire.
“This has been a nine-year adventure,” Webb said. “Every year, I try to add something new to the course. Last year, we added two doors, which are meant to teach families to close the door before you go to sleep.”
Wallside Windows donated free windows to the Flat Rock Fire Department for an educational obstacle course.
Webb said Wallside is a great partner in this effort.
“What a great company to have here in Michigan,” he said. “I went there and with no hesitation they walked me out to the factory area and gave me two windows.”
Webb said the obstacle course teaches fire prevention. Beyond climbing through windows, attendees learn how to crawl through a home to try to get underneath smoke. Kids in attendance also learn about the stamina, strength and balance required to be a firefighter.
There’s even a medical component, during which participants use EMS cots and help move patients to safety.
The Flat Rock Fire Department’s obstacle course teaches fire prevention, and uses Wallside Windows to demonstrate fire safety.
“I really enjoy how far this has come for us and I love hearing families talking about how cool the course is,” Webb said. “We get to educate parents in the hopes that we will may make the difference in them changing out the smoke alarm batteries or closing bedroom doors at night. Fire safety changes. We’re learning more about how things burn faster in our houses now. That gives everyone less time to get out to safety.”
Trenton and Huron Township fire departments have participated in this obstacle course, and the facility hosted a Detroit Burn Center reunion.
“That was a great honor to see the strength these kids have,” Webb said.
The obstacle course is available to families at various times throughout the year, including Riverfest in September in Flat Rock. Webb also hopes to bring it to Applefest on Oct. 4-6 in Huron Township. To find the most up-to-date listing, click here to visit the Flat Rock Fire Department’s Facebook page.
Find out more about the ways Wallside Windows works with the community, or click here or call 1-800-521-7800 to schedule a free estimate today.
