REED CITY - "If there is one child saved because they learned how to stay low to the floor in a fire, know where the exits are - if there is just one kid that learns and retains that information, it’s worth it," said Sue Snavely of Spectrum Health Reed City.
This weekend, children from around the area will have the opportunity to learn health and safety tips in a fun atmosphere Sunday at the Health and Safety Awareness Day.
The fifth annual event will host over 40 exhibits and hopes to attract 750 people. The day is designed to give kids and families opportunities to interact with health and safety personnel in a positive environment, Snavely explained. "Many times the only interaction people have with EMTs, health care workers or law enforcement is during a time of stress or difficulty," she said. The Health and Safety Day creates interaction that is far more positive and upbeat.
This year children and families will be treated to many different activities to educate both parents and children. Attendees can expect a fatal-vision driving test on a golf cart obstacle course, internet and personal information safety, a smoke house to simulate proper fire response, a biking safety course, a teddy bear clinic, and even a helicopter landing.
Parents can enjoy a free preventative health care screening, stop in for a water safety lesson after visiting the dunk tank, and learn about fishing safety for family trips to lakes and rivers.
"This is a great way to reach a lot of people in one afternoon," Snavely said. "We consider it proactive health care - it keeps everyone in our community safe."
Witnessing the positive response from the community over the past four years, Snavely is looking forward to another successful event.
"It’s a captive audience of people that are eager to learn. They are going to take home a lot of information," she said.
Health and Safety Awareness Day will be held noon to 4 p.m. Sunday at the Spectrum Health Reed City Hospital. The event is free and open to all ages. For those who are able, a donation of one non-perishable food item will be accepted and passed to local food pantries.
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