Thirty-One Years of Lifesaving Lessons at Benjamin Logan Elementary

For the 31st consecutive year, Benjamin Logan Elementary School has proudly partnered with the Rushcreek Township Fire & EMS to bring critical fire safety education to its youngest learners. This annual tradition continues to provide Kindergarten, Head Start Preschool, and First Grade students with engaging, age-appropriate lessons designed to build confidence and save lives.
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The program focuses on empowering students with essential fire safety knowledge through meaningful activities, including:

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• Learning the difference between safe household items and “bad fire starters” like matches, lighters, and candles—and knowing to alert an adult if they find one.
• Completing a smoke detector homework assignment by finding, testing, and checking the batteries in home smoke detectors.
• Helping families create and practice a home fire escape plan, identifying two exits per room and a safe outdoor meeting place.
• Practicing how to check bedroom doors with the back of the hand—and what to do if the door is hot or cold.
  
  

Students also watched a demonstration by Assistant Fire Chief Dan Foulk, who suited up in full firefighting gear and explained how his protective uniform is made of heat-resistant material to protect against fire. His presentation helped students understand that firefighters in gear may look different—but they are always there to help.

Highlights included:

• Practicing Stop, Drop, and Roll
• Crawling low under “smoke” using a tarp tunnel to simulate escaping a fire safely
  
  

To reinforce learning through creativity, each student received a Fire Safety Week coloring page featuring a Rushcreek Township fire engine. The activity also served as an entry into a coloring contest, allowing students to express their understanding of safety in a fun and memorable way.

“Our goal is to empower students with tools to stay safe and feel confident in emergency situations,” said Assistant Chief Mike Overturf. “Teaching them young makes a lasting impact.”
 
Benjamin Logan Elementary is proud of this 31-year tradition and the strong partnership with the Rushcreek Township Fire & EMS Department that continues to enhance safety education for every generation of Raiders.

Special thanks to following individuals for their leadership, time, and commitment to fire safety education:

• Dave Davis, Rushcreek Township Trustee
• Assistant Chief Mike Overturf, Rushcreek Township Fire & EMS Department
• Fire Chief Duane Van Buskirk, Rushcreek Township Fire & EMS Department
• Assistant Chief Dan Foulk, Rushcreek Township Fire & EMS Department
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Their ongoing support makes this invaluable experience possible year after year.