CENTRAL — More than 500 youth will observe fire trucks and rescue vehicles, receive safety tips and participate in escape drills Wednesday during the 10th annual Fire Prevention and Public Services Day.

The event, hosted by the Central Fire Department and Clemson University (CU) Fire Department, will take place from 8 a.m.-11:45 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.-2 p.m. at the Central-Clemson Indoor Recreation Center. More than 45 emergency personnel will be on hand, accompanied by more than 15 fire trucks, emergency and rescue vehicles.

Tom Cloer, Central fire prevention and safety coordinator, said two schools and four day cares are scheduled to attend.

“We want to give these kids the tools to show their parents what they need to do in case of a fire,” Cloer said. “They also have an opportunity to climb up on fire trucks and interact with firemen, something they really enjoy.”

The event will feature the Central-Clemson Smokehouse/sprinkler trailer, Video Kid’s Corner for Fire Safety and displays and information booths concerning fire safety in the home. Classes and lectures on fire prevention and safety; the distribution of fire prevention handouts, coloring books and stickers; and the appearance of Freddie the Fire Cat are also scheduled.

While Cloer said fire trucks and ladder trucks will be set up for viewing, there won’t be any water demonstrations this year.

“With the drought restrictions, we won’t be able to do that,” Cloer said.

Cloer said this year’s program will also feature an appearance by Chad Kelley, a new fire resource officer at the CU Fire Department.

“Chad has done a lot of work with puppet shows and youth activities,” he said. “We’re looking to focus on kids by spending a little more time with their programs.”

Through the years, Cloer said the program has literally saved the lives of families whose children led them to safety from burning homes because they learned the proper steps through Fire Safety Day.

“If a child is ever going to experience a fire, more than likely it’s going to be in the home,” he said, adding that the Clemson and Central police departments will also distribute brochures along with the Central Rescue Squad and Central Emergency Management Services.

Cloer requested groups larger than 50 planning to attend the program call him in advance at (864) 639-2177.