The “New-To-Us” trailer brings a new chapter of fire safety to the borough
By Astra Zerbe
On Aug. 6, the Kutztown Fire Department announced it had acquired a mobile fire safety and prevention training unit. The trailer includes multiple sections, including two bedrooms, a kitchen and a control room. It is designed to mimic real emergency scenarios and will be used to educate Kutztown residents, especially children.
Photo Credit: Astra Zerbe
The unit replicates a variety of fire emergencies and comes equipped with smoke machines, heat-emitting doors, working alarms and a faux home phone to teach children the importance of dialing 911.
The control center is located inside the trailer and houses a camera monitoring system to ensure safety, as well as controls for all in-house devices.
Photo Credit: Astra Zerbe
Andrew Galley, a captain at the fire station, expressed excitement about the new education system.
“We really wanted to give back to the community. It gives us a great opportunity to focus on fire prevention with a hands-on approach for the kids. I think this will really help them react in a real emergency situation,” Galley said.
The unit has already been used at multiple events, including the Kutztown Fire & Rescue Fun Day, hosted by the firehouse during the local Kutztown Fair.
Photo Credit: Astra Zerbe
Looking ahead, Galley said the trailer will be used for fire prevention lessons at the station, at Kutztown Elementary School and at future community events. The department also plans to lend the unit to a neighboring fire department in Kenton, which will use it for its local school districts and events.
“We’re looking forward to having kids across multiple areas be able to access this education,” Galley said.
Purchased from a firehouse in Ohio, the unit still displays its original name and logos. Galley and the Kutztown Fire Department plan to involve the local community in rebranding and renovating the trailer and are seeking partners to help with the effort.
To learn more about the unit or to request its use for an event, visit the Kutztown Fire Department website.