Clowning Around:

Public Education Specialist Nicole Giuliano initiated a new program for the department in 2007- fire safety clowning. The idea of clowning in fire safety public education programs has been popular for years and is taught though the State Fire College in Ocala. Our own Fire Safety Clown, aka Sizzle, made her debut at the Station Four open house event in October and has made numerous appearances at community events during the past year.

Publications:

Since 1997, the department has continued its mission of enhancing employee communications through the publication the BSFD BLAZE. The monthly newsletter for employees provides information on training, emergency calls, board meetings, employee accomplishments and other worthwhile topics.

The local publication of Parent & Child magazine, requires topics for their "Safety Corner" section. Along with other agencies, the Public Educator provides tips on a variety of seasonal safety topics such as Firework Safety, Safe Sitters, and safety at Christmas-time.

SAFE Home Project:

2008 marked the 13th year of the Smoke Alarm for Every Home (SAFE) Project. By raising funds throughout the year, the Public Education Division distributed free smoke alarms to nearly 600 kindergarten students. The program costs about $4,500 per year.

Fire Prevention Month:

In support of Annual Fire Prevention Month, the Public Education Division promotes fire safety and prevention practices. Throughout October, the public education specialist and firefighters made fire safety presentations to each classroom in Bonita Springs, from kindergarten to sixth grade. This one-on-one opportunity allows members of the department to spend quality time with more than 3,500 children to relay safety messages and to answer their questions. The department continues to enjoy an excellent rapport with school administrators, teachers and students. Children also learned about fire safety through fire station tours.

Injury Prevention:

The department has continued to work with other agencies to promote injury prevention throughout the county. Being a member of groups such as the Lee County Safe Kids Coalition and the Lee County Injury Prevention Coalition provided numerous opportunities to network with others who are dedicated to the same cause.

The Victim Assistance Program:

In 1999, the Public Education Division realized a need that wasn't being fully met on emergency scenes- emotional first aid. This program delivers additional support to victims beyond the emergency response, such as coordinating with the American Red Cross for assistance with lodging, clothing, food, emotional first aid or other such needs. An After the Fire booklet has been created to better assist victims with the important numbers and information they might need to recover and salvage their lost or damaged possessions and important papers.