Grantee Highlight: West Metro Fire's "Safe All Ways" Program

West Metro Fire Rescue promotes safe walking and biking through its "Safe All Ways" program. Firefighters deliver fun, interactive safety presentations to thousands of students in elementary, middle and high schools. Students learn how to safely cross a street, fit a bike helmet, identify distracted drivers and keep themselves safe around traffic.

During the 2016-17 school year, they taught students at 21 elementary schools, four middle schools, four high schools and two schools serving kids with disabilities. Five elementary schools hosted Walk to School Day events in October.

In September, they hosted the annual "Family Fire Muster." Community partners including Safe Kids Denver Metro, St. Anthony Hospital, Bicycle Colorado and local law enforcement helped promote motor vehicle, bike and pedestrian safety to 3000-plus attendees. Preschool- and elementary-age kids participated in a bike rodeo, helmet fitting and other fun activities.

Middle and high school students earned service hours by volunteering at the event. They used CDOT materials to encourage distraction-free driving and seat belt use at the Muster, and will continue to use these materials and activities throughout the summer at community events.

For more information about the "Safe All Ways" program, please contact Community Education Specialist Susan Saito at 303-989-4307, ext. 537, or [email protected].