A firehouse is place where firefighters come to work. They keep neighborhoods safe by fighting fires. They help save people from the smoke and flames of a fire. At Engine Company 16 in Chicago, firefighters help in other ways. They welcome neighborhood children inside the firehouse. The firefighters show children what to do in case of fire. The firefighters and the children become good friends.
In this firehouse, children can see and touch all the equipment used to put out fires. The firefighters are willing to answer their questions and show them how to use the equipment. Children can also play with" Smokey" in the firehouse. Smokey is a made-up character. He is a strong bear. Firefighters use Smokey to tell about the danger of forest fires. They want people to be safe in the woods. Smokey says, "Only you can prevent forest fires." Smokey tells people to be careful in the woods. He says to tell a ranger(护林员) if you smell smoke or see fire. Get away from the fire quickly. Heavy smoke can make it hard to breathe.
Forest fires give off 80 much heat that plants can die. It is too hot for them to grow anymore.
We should.
