WED-099 - The Massachusetts Miracle: Reducing Child Fire Deaths Through Education and Advocacy

Brief Abstract Summary: This presentation will detail how a task force of community risk reduction (CRR) specialists in Massachusetts worked with state legislators to create the S.A.F.E (Student Awareness of Fire Education) grant program, providing resources for fire departments to teach fire safety education in schools. Since the S.A.F.E. program began in 1996, child fire deaths decreased significantly in the state; and, for the first time on record in 2020, dropped to zero child fire deaths in a calendar year! The presenter will explain how the one thing that was happening in Massachusetts to improve fire safety for children, which was not happening for all other age groups, was consistent, comprehensive, statewide, school-based fire safety education. The presentation will share the problems the task force encountered, highlight a few ‘lessons learned,’ and discuss ways in which attendees can implement a similar comprehensive approach in their own state or region.

Detailed abstract description: This workshop will explore the successful implementation and impact of a statewide fire safety education program in Massachusetts. Over 25 years, a task force of fire and life safety educators, funded by a grant program, partnered with schools to deliver fire safety education to children. Firefighters, specially trained in engaging young audiences, delivered interactive lessons focused on developing critical fire safety behaviors. The program led to a dramatic reduction in child fire deaths in the Commonwealth, resulting in zero child fire fatalities over two consecutive years. This workshop will delve into the program's key components, including the development of engaging curriculum, effective partnerships, and ongoing evaluation. Participants will learn how critical elements such as engaging local fire departments, tailoring curriculum to meet diverse community needs, and utilizing data-driven evaluations can enhance similar initiatives in their regions. Key lessons include the importance of sustained funding, the role of hands-on demonstrations, and the value of continuous training for educators. By sharing insights from this successful model, the presentation aims to empower practitioners, researchers, and policymakers to replicate these impactful strategies, ultimately reducing child fire injuries and fatalities globally. Join us to ignite discussions on scalable solutions for fire safety education that can save lives in every community.