After introducing elementary students to everything from bike safety to drowning hazards, “Risk Watch” co-ordinator Greg Allan is not only certain the pilot program will continue this September–it’s going to double in size.
“We still have to hear from some schools but we’re pretty confident we’ll have at least 50 teachers running with it next year,” said Allan, noting 28 teachers had agreed to implement “Risk Watch” this past year.
As word of the program has spread, Allan noted it was possible every school in the district may take it up, including Northstar Community School in Atikokan, which did not participate this year.
“We’ve had great support the community and the teachers who agreed to roll with it, and I don’t see that slowing down,” he said.
“Risk Watch” wrapped up here in February when students up to grade eight were tested on what they had learned from the course, which was taught during the usual health class time slot.
Results then were sent to the Ontario Fire Marshal’s Office in Toronto, where the program’s effectiveness was assessed.
“I’m not sure yet how we did compared to others communities but Fire Marshal Jerry Armstrong did say he thought we did quite well,” said Allan. “Things are very, very positive.”
“Risk Watch” targets the eight leading causes of injury for children–motor vehicle crashes; fires and burns; choking, suffocation, and strangulation; firearm accidents; bike and pedestrian hazards; falls; and water hazards.
A possible addition to the eight-unit program may be a farm safety module although Allan stressed this was only being considered at this time.
“Risk Watch” is sponsored by many community groups, including the OPP, Fort Frances Fire Brigade, Northwestern Health Unit, Canadian Tire, Abitibi-Consolidated, Voyageur Panel, Rainy River Fire Department, Fort Frances Ambulance Service, and the Kiwanis Club (which donated $2,000 for more resource materials).
Fort Frances Times
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