Learn Not to Burn
It is difficult to imagine that anyone in today's society - especially in the aftermath of 911 - isn't well aware of, and tremendously grateful for, the essential services fire fighters provide.

Yet, thanks to the Michigan Association of Fire Fighters, there is one important kind of contribution to citizen safety that doesn't receive a lot of publicity - community programming.

"That's why we are minding all of our members, other fire fighters, school officials and parents of young children that we are continuing our mission of distributing Learn Not to Burn curriculum binders and/or resource books to schools" said MAFF Community Programs Coordinator Penny Cantin.

"Our intention is to provide these materials free of charge to schools throughout all counties in Michigan. We strongly support the Learn Not to Burn program, which is a teaching project developed by the National Fire Prevention Association. It's a great cause; one that is known to have saved literally hundreds of young people's lives.

"Learn Not to Burn doesn't generate headlines and it isn't a dramatic effort that brings widespread publicity to fire fighters, but it is greatly valued by parents and teachers. The program has been approved by the National Education Association."

MAFF's support of the program, which is financed by private sector participation, is focused on helping as many children as possible, in as many schools all around Michigan as possible, learn more about fire safety.

Learn Not to Burn materials include a 4-volume, 288 page set of printed and illustrated information. MAFF distributes this material free of charge. As of early 2004, it has provided this service to some 1,000 schools in more than 80 Michigan counties.

Further information about the program can be obtained by calling Ms. Cantin at 248-304-8806.