Patrick Hamilton students tour

Published 8:27 pm Wednesday, April 29, 2009

By Staff
The Dowagiac Department of Public Safety hosted 50 third-grade students from Patrick Hamilton Elementary School on Monday, April 27.
Sgt. Michael Heidenreich and Officer Ryan Murray of the Dowagiac Police Department gave a brief tour of the Police Department offices, where students received badge stickers, pencils and activity pages covering safety topics.
The highlight, however, came with the close-up look at the squad car, officer equipment and details on the daily activity and responsibilities of a police officer.
Deputy Chief Dale Hutchings and Capt. Mike Mattix of the Dowagiac Fire Department gave a tour of the Fire Station.
Students were fascinated with the large fire trucks and equipment used in fighting fires here in Dowagiac.
A special treat came when students received their own special "fire helmet" to take home.
Safety activity sheets distributed to students included a "Street Smarts" maze.
The maze required students to navigate through a park trail to reach home.
One tip for staying safe during the "hike" included "always walk or bike in groups of two or three."
Another maze in the booklet required students to find their way through a forest/grass fire to reach safety.
Tips for staying calm and planning the escape were included.
A third activity challenged students to "de-code" a puzzle to reveal timely tips for having "fun in the sun."
Students can share this activity with their family as they prepare for summer vacation activities.
The Dowagiac Department of Public Safety continues to work in partnership with Dowagiac Union Schools to enhance safety education for personnel, students and families.
It is always a highlight for police and fire professionals to experience these interactive programs and have the opportunity to educate young people on ways to keep themselves and their families safe.
Cass County Safe Kids
event Saturday, May 2
Cass County Safe Kids will be hosting a free car seat check this Saturday, May 2, from noon to 3 p.m. at Judge's Marathon Gas Station, Five-Mile Corner (corner of M-51 and M-152, five miles north of Dowagiac).
The Dowagiac Department of Public Safety is a collaborative partner in the Cass County Safe Kids program.
Appointments are not necessary, but you may contact Cass County Sheriff's Office Deputy Katie White with any questions regarding the May 2 event.
If there are additional topics that you would like to see covered in Safety Corner, please contact Patty (Carlisle) Klug at the Dowagiac Police Department, (269) 782-9743.