FROM STAFF REPORTS

HELENA–A local Helena Fire Explorer was recently recognized in the March 2016 Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Children and Disasters newsletter for his work promoting fire safety.

Matthew Mayfield, a member of FEMA’s Youth Preparedness Council from Region IV, organized a fire safety booth during his hometown’s Fall Festival. Mayfield partnered with Helena Fire Rescue, Helena Fire Explorers Post 2060, the American Red Cross Birmingham Chapter and the Boy Scouts of America Troop 532 in Helena to host multiple interactive stations.

One station was equipped with a stove and its participants learned about chemical and kitchen fire safety. In another station, participants learned about smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and how to create a fire escape plan. In another station, participants learned about the different types of fire extinguishers and practiced extinguishing a simulated fire.

Mayfield continues to promote fire safety preparedness in Helena through trainings aligned with the Fire and Life Safety Prevention Program. The trainings have led to multiple real-life success stories.

For example, two participants saved their homes from oven fires. Mayfield has also worked with the American Red Cross Birmingham Chapter to install smoke detectors in homes throughout the community.

To reach out to Mayfield, you can contact his FEMA Region IV mentors, Candace Burrell and Terry Thomas.