Townshend, Vt. — October 11 — Chief Beattie and Captain Beattie of the Townshend Volunteer Fire Department visited Townshend Elementary School as part of Fire Prevention Week outreach. This year’s focus highlighted the safe handling, charging, and disposal of lithium-ion batteries, an increasing concern in home fire safety.

Firefighters also spoke with students about creating and practicing a family evacuation plan, choosing a meeting place outside the home, and responding properly when smoke or carbon monoxide detectors sound. Captain Beattie demonstrated full PPE to help students recognize what a firefighter looks and sounds like during an emergency, reinforcing that firefighters are there to help.