The Grand Island Fire Department had a Fire Escape Plan contest for elementary school students. (Courtesy photo)
GRAND ISLAND – The Grand Island Fire Department has announced the winners of its annual Fire Escape Plan contest Nov. 5, recognizing 15 third-grade students from local schools for their creativity and understanding of fire safety. They are:
Angelly Mercado Saldivar, Dodge Elementary; Remington Stutzman, Shoemaker Elementary; Karelyn Vargas Chavez, Lincoln Elementary; Alaina Emery, Stolley Park Elementary; Anna Manchester, Trinity Lutheran; Rogelio Cifuentes Martin, Jefferson Elementary; Raegan Warner; Engleman Elementary; Felipe Mateo Lopez, Howard Elementary; Evy Sanchez, Newell Elementary; Carson Engle, Grand Island Central Catholic Elementary; Thomas O’Neill, Gates Elementary; Emma Vogel, Wasmer Elementary; Hazel Kluska, Starr Elementary; Royalty Garcia, West Lawn Elementary; Zeke Garcia; Knickrehm Elementary.
Each year, the contest challenges third-grade students across Grand Island to design a detailed plan showing two exits from every room, a family meeting place outside and safe paths to escape in case of a fire. Firefighters review every submission, selecting winners based on accuracy, creativity and clarity.
As part of the celebration, each of the 15 winners received a special ride to school Nov. 5 aboard a Grand Island Fire Department fire truck, giving them a fun and memorable start to their day. The overall winner was also treated to a once-in-a-lifetime experience — a ride in the department’s aerial platform truck outside their school, where classmates and teachers gathered to cheer as the platform was raised high above the campus. The tradition serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of fire safety while rewarding students for their effort and creativity in helping make their families safer.
The program has been a proud Grand Island Fire Department tradition, teaching students and families the importance of preparedness through hands-on learning.
“Fires can move quickly, and having a plan can make all the difference,” said Fire Chief Cory Schmidt. “By involving third graders, we’re helping them take that lesson home and share it with their families. The goal is simple—practice your plan before you ever need it.”
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