Fire safety outreach campaign reached over 4,600 local students

Official Statements

• McAlester Army Ammunition Plant, November 10: “MCALESTER, Okla. — The McAlester Army Ammunition Plant fire department wrapped up its annual public education and community outreach campaign that delivered vital, life-saving training to school-aged children in the surrounding communities.

  Conducted throughout the month of October, this educational initiative represents an enduring commitment by the department and the installation to safeguard young lives and fostering a culture of safety.

  This year's campaign was particularly impactful, reaching thousands of eager students across several regional districts. MCAAP firefighters travelled to local elementary schools, engaging children with hands-on demonstrations, safety gear showcases, and actionable guidance on what to do in an emergency.

  “Our commitment to the surrounding communities goes far beyond our daily operations inside the gates,” said Col. Perkins, MCAAP’s commander. “This annual outreach campaign is a vital part of our mission; allowing us to connect directly with the region’s youth and equip them with the knowledge and tools they need to stay safe. I am incredibly proud of our firefighters and partners for their dedication to building a safer, more resilient community for future generations.”

  By returning to area schools annually, personnel establish continuous touchpoints with local youth, reinforcing lifesaving behaviors as children grow and ensuring each incoming class develops the instincts and awareness necessary to recognize hazards early.

  The training sessions were designed to be age-appropriate and memorable. Students learned the importance of smoke detectors, the steps to "stop, drop, and roll," and how to map out emergency escape plans with their families. By demystifying the appearance of firefighters in full protective gear, the outreach team aimed to reduce children's fear of first responders during actual emergencies.

  Thanks to the hard work of the department personnel and the tremendous support of local school administrators and faculty, the campaign achieved exceptional reach across the region. Over the course of the month, the team traveled to 23 campuses and delivered 26 dynamic, age-appropriate educational shows.

  In total, the initiative empowered 4,647 students with practical safety skills and actionable knowledge they can immediately use to protect their homes and families.

  “Delivering interactive, life-saving safety demonstrations to over 4,600 students is a phenomenal achievement,” said Wade Miller, MCAAP’s director of Installation Services. “Through these hands-on sessions, our fire department ensures that local children not only learn fire prevention habits, but also build critical trust with our first responders. We are deeply grateful to the local school administrations and district leadership for welcoming our teams into their classrooms to make this campaign such a resounding success.”

  With another successful campaign in the books, the MCAAP fire department plans to continue expanding its community footprint, ensuring that local school districts remain prepared, informed, and safe.”