**Fire Safety Training Programme Launched at Astromeritis Primary School**
Astromeritis, Cyprus – A new fire safety training programme aimed at primary and secondary school students was officially launched at Astromeritis Primary School on Monday. The initiative, which is part of a broader effort to instill a culture of safety and prevention among young people, was introduced by Education Minister Athena Michaelidou.
During her opening remarks, Minister Michaelidou emphasized the critical importance of incorporating safety into the educational framework. She stated, “Safety must be central to education,” and highlighted the necessity of fostering a culture of prevention and self-protection from an early age. The minister also underscored the significance of collaboration among various stakeholders, including state services, educational institutions, and voluntary organizations.
Fire Chief Nikos Longinos, who also attended the launch, elaborated on the programme's objectives. He noted that the initiative builds upon previous training efforts directed at teachers, now expanding its reach to students. The focus is on enhancing pupils' fire prevention knowledge and emergency response skills through modern teaching methods and practical activities. Longinos expressed optimism that the programme would equip students with essential skills that could potentially save lives.
The initiative is supported by the Bank of Cyprus’ SupportCY volunteers, with representative Elli Ioannidou stressing the importance of investing in fire prevention education, especially in light of increasing fire risks associated with climate change. Ioannidou mentioned that ongoing support would include school visits, educational sessions, and fire prevention patrols in rural areas, aiming to create a comprehensive safety network.
The event also featured remarks from several community leaders, including Panikos Tsouderos, president of the Cyprus Retired Firefighters’ Organisation, and Aris Constantinou, a local community leader. Both speakers reinforced the need for cooperation among various entities to ensure the safety of schools and their students.
School head Demetris Nicolaou welcomed the initiative, noting that it aligns with the school’s commitment to providing a safe learning environment. He expressed hope that the programme would not only educate students about fire safety but also inspire them to take an active role in promoting safety within their communities.
As part of the launch, students from both kindergarten and primary school participated in interactive sessions led by fire service members and SupportCY volunteers. These sessions included demonstrations of fire safety equipment and fire engines, providing students with hands-on experience and practical knowledge about fire safety protocols.
The fire safety training programme aims to cultivate a generation of students who are more aware of fire prevention, responsible in their actions, and prepared to respond effectively during emergencies. By engaging young learners in these critical topics, the initiative seeks to instill lifelong safety habits and a proactive approach to risk management.
As the programme rolls out across schools in Cyprus, it is expected to play a vital role in enhancing community resilience and preparedness in the face of potential fire hazards. The collaborative efforts of government agencies, local organizations, and educational institutions mark a significant step towards fostering a safer environment for all students.