With today’s release of Chuggington Fire Patrol Rescue on DVD (complete with a new TOMY Diecast Toy), the folks at Ludorum and Anchor Bay Entertainment have declared this to be Chuggington Fire Patrol Rescue Day, a prime opportunity to educate kids and remind families of the importance of fire safety and having a plan. In this new collection of Chuggington adventures, children are introduced to Asher, a “Firechugger” who brings a new element of excitement to Wilson and the gang. If my own adventure as a parent (nearly six years in already) has taught me anything, it’s that kids love trains and firetrucks… and Fire Patrol Rescue puts those two together seamlessly.
On this new DVD, kids can experience “Blazin’ Wilson,” in which he and Asher show off their teamwork skills to fight a mighty blaze; learn the importance of preparation in emergency drills in “Round Up Wilson”; see how action causes reaction in “High Rise Rescue”; find out about sleepwalking… er, “sleep-riding” as Old Puffer Pete does in “Park Patroller Wilson”; learn the importance of chores/cleaning in “Scrub-A-Chug”; and can follow Emery on a magical misadventure in “Stop The Press, Emery.”
In honor of Chuggington Fire Patrol Rescue Day, and to help keep your family and young trainees safe all year-round, here are some important tips from Firechugger Asher and the National Fire Protection Association:
- Asher says, “Plan ahead!”
Create a home escape plan so every member of your family knows what to do and where to go if there’s a fire. Designate a meeting spot, such as a tree or mailbox, that’s a safe distance from the home. And practice your home fire drill both at night and during the day.
- Asher says, “Stop a fire before it starts!”
Keep matches and lighters out of sight and out of reach from children. Store them up high, preferably in a locked cabinet or drawer. It’s also important to teach kids that lighters and matches are tools for adults only and that they should tell a grown-up if they see these items lying around.
- Asher says, “Cool it in the kitchen!”
Always keep an eye on the stove while you’re cooking, and use a timer as a reminder that the stove or oven is on. Create a “kid-free zone” around the stove as well as areas where hot food and drinks are prepared. And make sure to keep anything that can catch fire, including oven mitts and towels, away from hot appliances!
- Asher says, “Sound the alarm! “
Smoke detectors are a key part of a home fire escape plan. Make sure to install smoke detectors on every floor of the home, especially inside and outside bedrooms. Don’t forget to test all smoke alarms at least once a month!
- Asher says, “Stay low and stay out! “
If, during a fire, you have to escape through smoke, get low, go under the smoke and close the doors behind you as you leave each room. It’s crucial to remind children that, once outside, they should never go back inside for anything, including pets or toys. It’s best to wait to call the fire department until you get outside and are a safe distance away from the fire.
Want more tips? Check out the National Fire Protection Association. CHUGGINGTON airs daily on Disney Junior.
