From an article on ChicagoTribune.com: When a whiff of non-toxic smoke filled the pretend bedroom and a smoke alarm blared, nine kids participating in a fire drill at the Chicago Fire Department's training academy on the Near West Side immediately went into emergency mode. This simulated scenario, which involved a staged bedroom set-up, might have been just a practice for these African-American children, but it carried significant importance, as emphasized by a national organization representing black firefighters. According to data from the U.S. Fire Administration, the fatality rate among African-American children in residential fires across the U.S. is more than double that of white children, despite African-Americans comprising a smaller percentage of the population. Fire officials argue that these deaths can be prevented. "Lack of education is what leads to these fatalities," explained Gregory Boggs, a lieutenant with the Chicago Fire Department and president of the African-American Firefighters & Paramedics League. "These kids simply don't know how to exit a burning building or the proper techniques to use when opening a door," he added. Before the drill commenced, veteran firefighter and fire safety instructor Preston Roberson reminded the children that in the event of a real fire, quick thinking would be essential. A couple of kids who were joking around in the mock bedroom were instantly brought back to attention by Roberson's stern voice. Following Roberson's instructions, the elementary school students reacted promptly, testing the door for heat with the backs of their hands and crawling out of the fake structure just as they'd been coached to do. This exercise was part of a larger morning event for around 70 children and their families, marking the fifth year of the "firefighter for a day" initiative organized by Boggs' group. During this event, veteran firefighters—many of whom are African-American—taught fundamental skills that could potentially save lives in the event of a house fire. Roberson and others instructed the children on creating a fire escape plan and how to communicate effectively when calling 911. Activities such as dressing up as firefighters, learning about firefighting gear, and engaging in simulations at the academy on DeKoven Street also exposed children of color to firefighting as a viable career path. Boggs' organization has intensified its recruitment efforts recently, aiming to boost the number of African-Americans in the Chicago Fire Department. According to Boggs, out of the roughly 5,000 firefighters in the city, only about 842—or just over 16 percent—are African-American. "That's a very low number, and we're actively working to change that and bring more African-Americans onto the force," Boggs stated. Thanks Dan! Rescue Fire Truck,Fighter Truck,Rescue Engine Truck,Fire Fighting Truck Kaili Special Automobile Co., Ltd , https://www.kailiwei.co.ke