5th Graders Learn Fire Safety In A Smoky 'Escape Room'

CROSS RIVER, NY — Escape rooms are all the rage as a source of entertainment, but at one local school, solving the puzzle could also mean saving lives.

From the Katonah-Lewisboro School District:

Firefighter Tom cracked open the door of the small classroom. Smoke wafted out into the hallway. "Crawl in quickly," he said, letting one fifth grader in at a time. “Then go that way,” he added, pointing to the right.

Less than 30 seconds later, the same students came back in through the exterior door.

"What was it like?" their classmates said. "I’m scared."

Meadow Pond fifth graders had the unique experience of moving through a "smoke room" on October 18. The simulation was set up in the interventionist’s room by members of the Vista Fire Department so students could practice moving safely through a smoky space. They knew the rule: stay low and go.

The program began in the classroom. Vista Fire Department District Manager Thomas Ritchey, a Meadow Pond graduate who introduced himself to the students as Firefighter Tom, led a discussion with students. He stressed how quickly a fire can move. "If you smell smoke or see fire, get out as quickly as possible," he said. "It is easier to breathe if you stay low."

He reminded the students that during school fire drills, everyone met on the field. "Set up a meeting place with your family. It can be a mailbox or swing set, just as long as everyone knows, and go there," he said.

After moving through the smoke room, the students were excited to share what it was like. "The smoke smelled like burnt cookies," said one student. "I couldn’t see anything!" said another. "I’ve never been in that room before; I didn’t know where the window was."

Firefighter Dominick Mangone was in the room with them, reminding them where the window was. Once they got close, they could see the sunshine. Just outside the window was Lieutenant Daniel Castelhano, a MPES dad, saying, "You did it! Good job!"