Sanpete County, in collaboration with the Utah Division of Forestry, Fire, and State Lands, joins forces annually to educate its citizens about essential fire safety measures. This initiative is aimed at safeguarding the community against potential fire hazards and ensuring a safer environment for all.

The impetus for this partnership came from the combined efforts of Sanpete County Commissioner Scott Bartholomew, Sanpete County Fire Warden Thomas Peterson, and Beverly Thomas, a dedicated member of the Ephraim Lions Club. Together, they sought to create additional opportunities for teenagers to play a pivotal role in educating the community about wildland fire safety and prevention.

Research has shown that educating teenage students about wildfire risk reduction in their homes and communities can have a profound impact. The first step in this endeavor involved enlightening over 600 elementary and middle school students from Sanpete and Wayne Counties. These young minds were introduced to modern-day fire prevention measures, drawing parallels to the strategies employed by early state settlers. The educational experience unfolded during a field day at the Ephraim Pioneer Museum and Cabins, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

During the summer, the Manti High School Girls Soccer team became ambassadors for fire safety by actively participating in local parades and various community events. Sporting shirts and banners emblazoned with their motto, “Fire Safety is our #1 goal,” they fervently championed this critical cause.

At the County Fair, a dedicated booth showcased fire safety promotional items. Local youth from MHS Girls Soccer, an accelerated softball team, and the youth royalty court engaged fair attendees in an experiential activity called “Learn S’more about fire safety.” Participants gleaned valuable insights into campfire safety while indulging in delicious s’mores.

Simultaneously, during the Sanpete County Fair, members of the local Scout Troop 527 guided youth through the Fireman’s Challenge. This hands-on experience involved interactive games designed to impart different firefighting skills and knowledge.

Even as summer fades into memory, the commitment to fire safety remains unwavering among Sanpete County’s youth. As Halloween approaches, a local youth council will further promote fire safety by hosting a spook alley and a fire safety-themed decorated yard, ensuring that safety awareness persists.

The overarching objective of these summer events was to empower the youth to take ownership of spreading vital fire safety and preparedness information to their families and friends. By learning from and teaching their peers, the young individuals in the community have become messengers of knowledge that benefit not only their communities but also the environment at large.

For further information about Youth Wildland Fire activities in Sanpete County, please reach out to Beverly Thomas or Sanpete County Fire Warden Thomas Peterson at 435-835-2191. Your community’s safety matters, and the youth are leading the way in making it a safer place for all.