Related Photos

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  Sir William Stephenson PS student Kaeden tries on firefighter gear at Durham Kids’ Safety Village on September 23rd.
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  DRPS Constable Corey Walsh fields questions from Sir William Stephenson PS students during the Durham District School Board’s 15th Annual Safety Week.

Sir William Stephenson PS students join local first responders at Durham Kids’ Safety Village

September 23^rd – 27^th marks the 15^th Annual Durham District School Board (DDSB) Safety Week. For the first event of the week, students from Sir William Stephenson Public School in Whitby had the opportunity to put their safety skills to the test.

Approximately 40 Grade 1 and 2 students walked over to Durham Kids’ Safety Village (located behind the school), to test their safety knowledge and participate in a variety of activities.

Students joined a few Region of Durham Paramedic Services team members in a classroom, where they identified what a community helper looks like in different situations. “Outside of school, a police officer, a paramedic, and a firefighter are all community helpers that can assist you if there is an emergency,” says paramedic Nicole Gilchrist.

She adds, “Inside your school your principal, teachers, and school secretary are all community helpers as well.”

Students also chatted with Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) Constable Corey Walsh, learned about road safety, tested out medical supplies, and tried on firefighter gear.

Leo and Ben, students from Sir William Stephenson PS, say they had a blast learning about street safety, “Now I know we’re supposed to drive on the right side of the road!” exclaims Ben.

Safety at Every Level

Georgette Davis, Superintendent of Education for Safe Schools, Mental Health and Well-Being at the DDSB, explains why Safety Week is so important, “Safety Week provides us with an opportunity to highlight our collective commitment to providing safe and secure learning and working environments.”

Davis adds, “This event goes beyond the school level, it also highlights the fact that the community plays a large part in keeping our kids safe.”