Firefighters called on students at the Bermuda Institute as part of the school’s annual 100 Men on Campus programme.

Personnel from the Port Royal Fire Station met with children to support the event, intended to foster meaningful engagement between students and positive adult role models including fathers, grandfathers and community figures.

Young students were given hands-on, educational experiences with firefighters, including spraying water from a fire hose, exploring a fire appliance up close, trying on elements of a firefighter’s protective kit and meeting Sparky the Fire Dog.

Dana Lovell, the chief fire officer, said that community outreach was a core priority for the Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service.

He said: “Our responsibility does not begin and end with responding to emergencies. It includes educating our community, building relationships, and helping our young people understand safety from an early age.

“When children can see, touch and interact with firefighters in a positive setting, it removes fear and replaces it with knowledge and confidence.

“From installing free smoke alarms in the homes of seniors, to public safety demonstrations, truck design competitions and school outreach initiatives, we are intentional about meeting people where they are.

Mr Lovell added that the BFRS plans to reinforce its presence in the island’s schools to bolster fire safety awareness.

Michael Weeks, the Minister of National Security, commended the BFRS for taking part, adding: “Engagement like this builds trust, promotes safety awareness and strengthens the bond between our emergency services and the community.”