In April volunteers from three CFA brigades came together to deliver a fun and educational fire safety experience at Little Dreamers Early Learning Centre in Dandenong.
The event highlighted the value of brigade collaboration, with members from Keysborough, Dandenong and South East Region Community Safety brigades working together to engage young children in fire safety learning.
Inside the classroom, Gillian Grigg from Keysborough and Sumit Wadhera from Dandenong taught the children about smoke alarms, calling Triple Zero, the "Get down low and go, go, go" fire escape message, and how firefighters help keep the community safe.
The children also watched a volunteer put on full protective clothing, helping them feel more comfortable around firefighters in emergency gear.
Outside, Jamie McDonald from South East Region Community Safety Brigade and Stewart Matulis from Keysborough gave the children a hands-on experience with the tanker. The opportunity to hold the hose and spray water was a clear favourite and brought plenty of smiles.
The visit was warmly received by both children and staff, who thanked the volunteers with handmade posters and a small food hamper.
Most importantly, the event demonstrated what can be achieved when brigades work together. By combining their skills and resources, volunteers delivered an engaging community education program and strengthened local connections. The visit was such a success that the centre immediately requested a follow-up session.
This partnership is a great example of how brigade collaboration helps CFA build safer, more connected communities.