Westchester County Teaches Kids Fire Safety Fun
Photo by Westchester DESRye Fire Department members and DES staff pose with young learners after a fun morning of fire safety education!
Photo by Westchester DESStorytime meets fire safety — kids learn what to do if they hear a smoke alarm and how to call 911.
Photo by Westchester DESPhoenix, our fire safety dog, shows off his “Junior Firefighter” gear after a great day of teaching!
Photo by Westchester DESBeautiful day at Playland Children’s Museum for the “Park and Read” fire safety session!
Photo by Westchester DESKids explore the fire engine and meet real firefighters — the best way to learn is hands-on!
October 24, 2025 — The Westchester County Department of Emergency Services (DES) teamed up with the City of Rye Fire Department this week for a lively and educational “Park and Read” session at the Playland Children’s Museum, helping young children learn fire safety through hands-on fun.
Led by Rosie Finizio from the Office of County Executive Ken Jenkins, the event combined storytelling, demonstrations, and interactive activities to teach children how to stay safe during emergencies.
Lieutenant Cotter, Firefighter Archino, Firefighter Ramsey, and Firefighter Inguanti from Rye Fire Department guided children through important lessons such as how to dial 911, what to do when a fire alarm sounds, and gave them an up-close look at the fire trucks and equipment they use every day.
Meanwhile, DES County EMS team members Mike Day and Daniel Sugrue showcased the Mobile Emergency Treatment Unit (METU), while DES Fire Services Chief Rob Russell shared valuable take-home safety tips for families.
The day’s biggest hit was Phoenix, the department’s four-legged fire safety ambassador, who joined his handler Sam Fejes to help teach fire prevention in a way kids will never forget.
The DES thanked all participants for making the event a success and reaffirmed its commitment to educating the next generation about fire safety in engaging and memorable ways.
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