Public Education

Janine Johnson
Public Educations Specialist
(425) 433-2116
janinej@maplevalleyfire.org
Bio
Education Message
The Public Education Office facilitates several programs designed to increase fire safety knowledge within the community. Some programs include CERT training, First Aid/CPR classes, Safe-Sitter training, Safety-Trailer tours, Station Tours and fire safety for school children.
First Aid / CPR
First Aid and CPR classes are offered frequently. Refer to the schedule below for the next scheduled class. Call 425-432-0200 for more information.
2008 First Aid / CPR Schedule
Car Seat Info
Car Seat Checks are available through Auburn Regional Medical Center the second Thursday of every month.

Auburn Regional Medical Center
202 North Division Street
Auburn WA  98001
(253) 833-7711

for additional resources and information, visit http://www.saferchild.com/carseat.htm
Safe Sitter
Safe Sitter teaches adolescent babysitters how to handle crises, how to keep their charges secure, and how to nurture and guide a young child. In short, Safe Sitter babysitters help children stay safe and sound while their parents are away. In the process, these 11-to 13-year-olds emerge as more confident, responsible and compassionate teens and adults. Their instructors thrive on making a difference in the lives of these adolescents and the children in their care. And their sponsoring Safe Sitter site enjoys the benefits of developing a positive relationship with its community's youth and families.

If you would like further information please contact Janine Johnson at (425) 433-2116 or visit the community center website.
Juvenile Fire Setter
Juvenile Firesetting is a term describing the behavior of children who have begun to use fire in a way that is dangerous, or that is not approved by a parent or caregiver. The term, Firesetter, does not necessarily mean that the child has a problem. It does mean that the child needs additional education about the dangers and the correct use of fire. Though education and, in some cases counseling, children can learn to change this dangerous behavior.

If you would like further information regarding Juvenile Firesetting please contact Janine Johnson at (425) 433-2116
Community Emergency Response Teams
The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program educates people about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. Using the training learned in the classroom and during exercises, CERT members can assist others in their neighborhood or workplace following an event when professional responders are not immediately available to help. CERT members also are encouraged to support emergency response agencies by taking a more active role in emergency preparedness projects in their community.

For more details contact Public Education Specialist Janine Johnson (425) 433-2116
Preventing Falls Among Seniors
Falls are not just the result of getting older. Many falls can be prevented. Falls are usually caused by a number of things. By changing some of these things, you can lower your chances of falling.

You can reduce your chances of falling by doing these things:

1. Begin a regular exercise program.
Exercise is one of the most important ways to reduce your chances of falling. It makes you stronger and helps you feel better. Exercises that improve balance and coordination (like Tai Chi) are the most helpful.

Lack of exercise leads to weakness and increases your chances of falling.

Ask your doctor or health care worker about the best type of exercise program for you.

2. Make your home safer.
About half of all falls happen at home. To make your home safer:
    • Remove things you can trip over (such as papers, books, clothes, and shoes) from stairs and places where you walk.
    • Remove small throw rugs or use double-sided tape to keep the rugs from slipping.
    • Keep items you use often in cabinets you can reach easily without using a step stool.
    • Have grab bars put in next to your toilet and in the tub or shower.
    • Use non-slip mats in the bathtub and on shower floors.
    • Improve the lighting in your home. As you get older, you need brighter lights to see well. Lamp shades or frosted bulbs can reduce glare.
    • Have handrails and lights put in on all staircases.
    • Wear shoes that give good support and have thin non-slip soles. Avoid wearing slippers and athletic shoes with deep treads.

3. Have your health care provider review your medicines.

Have your doctor or pharmacist look at all the medicines you take (including ones that don’t need prescriptions such as cold medicines). As you get older, the way some medicines work in your body can change. Some medicines, or combinations of medicines, can make you drowsy or light-headed which can lead to a fall.



4. Have your vision checked.

Have your eyes checked by an eye doctor. You may be wearing the wrong glasses or have a condition such as glaucoma or cataracts that limits your vision. Poor vision can increase your chances of falling.

Station Tours
Tours of your local fire station are available upon request. Station tours last approximately 20 minutes and include viewing the fire engine and fire fighting equipment, as well as talking to the firefighters about their job.

Tour Criteria
  • Fire Station tours may be scheduled for between the hours of 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM - Monday through Saturday. Evening tours are scheduled on an individual basis.
  • Tours should be scheduled at least 15 days in advance.
  • Group size must be 25 or fewer total participants (including children and chaperones). There must be 1 adult chaperone for every 5 children.
  • Fire stations remain "in-service" during tours. Fire companies may need to respond to emergencies at any time. If they do, it will be necessary for the tour to end and your group to exit the station. Please keep this in mind when visiting.
To schedule you tour call Janine Johnson at (425) 433-2116.