Fire engines and ambulances turned A.A. Gates Elementary into an interactive safety learning center for the school’s annual Fire Apparatus Day.

Students had the unique opportunity to step outside the classroom to inspect fire trucks and ambulances up close, inspect emergency equipment, and hear directly from local firefighters and EMTs about how emergency response works in their community.

Four area volunteer departments collaborated for the event:
• Port Byron Fire Department
• Throop Fire Department
• Montezuma Fire Department
• Conquest Fire Department

During the visits, emergency personnel demonstrated how life-saving tools are stored and operated on fire engines and medical rigs. Crews spoke to groups of students about basic fire safety principles, home escape routes, and what to expect if emergency responders ever visit their home during an incident.

The interactive format allowed children to see first responders in full gear in a friendly, comfortable environment, helping demystify emergency vehicles and build personal connections with local safety personnel.

“Fire Apparatus Day is a great example of what makes our community so special,” AA Gates Elementary Principal Tracy Musso said. “We're fortunate to have local emergency responders who take the time to come out and spend the morning with our students. This experience gives our kids a chance to learn about fire safety, ask questions, and connect with the people who help protect our community. We're truly grateful for their time, expertise, and the positive impact they have on our students.”

We would like to give a huge THANK YOU to Port Byron, Throop, Montezuma, and Conquest for spending the day with our students teaching about fire safety!