Six serious about fire prevention

Bremerton firefighter Michael Six has one goal for his first six months as the city’s fire prevention officer: no fires.

“In a perfect world, I’d like to see no fires,” Six said, who has been a firefighter for eight-and-a-half years. “Realistically, I’d like to see no kids or adults hurt from fires.”

Another one of his goals is increasing public awareness, especially among children, about fire escape plans, he said.

“My four-year-old is excited that he can get out of the house, through the window and through the screen in 45 seconds,” Six said. “As a parent that makes me feel good.”

Six said he would like every child to know that as long they get out of the house during a fire and go to their designated meeting place, everyone else will get out as well.

As part of the department’s fire prevention education program, Six said he envisions a program similar to the DARE program, except with a focus on fire safety.

“During my training days we had a program called, “Go spend a day in the schools,” where we’d come in around lunchtime and play games with the kids,” he said. “We’d have the on-duty crew and fire prevention guy do some education with them.”

Another part of his plans for increased public awareness about fire safety involves publishing weekly or monthly reports about departmental activities and trends in local newspapers.

“At this time of year as the weather turns colder, we’re starting to see those heaters that might not turn all the way off and people put clothes against them,” he said, which result in increased fire hazards.

As the department’s fire prevention officer, Six said he wants the public not to be afraid to visit the fire station and ask questions.

“Every member of the department on the drop of a dime would give you a tour of the station and put you up a fire truck and let you play with the steering wheel,” he said. “Every member of this department will sit down with any member of the community and share information about fire safety.”

Even though he has been in his current position for less than a month, Six said he enjoys the change of pace.

“I kind of miss running the calls with the other guys, but it’s an exciting time in the city and I’m excited to be a part of it,” he said.

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