Macon Mall Hosts Fire Prevention Week Opening Ceremony, Showcasing Local Student Talent

On Wednesday, October 9, 2024, the Macon-Bibb County Fire Department kicked off its Annual Fire Prevention Week with an opening ceremony at the Macon Mall. The event emphasized the importance of fire safety, focusing on the theme, “Smoke Alarms! Make them work for you.” Life Safety Educator Lt. Jeremy Webb highlighted the lifesaving role of working smoke alarms, stating, “This vital campaign reminds us all of the lifesaving power of working smoke alarms in protecting homes and communities.”

The ceremony also recognized students from across Macon-Bibb County who participated in the Louise Poe Fire Safety Essay and Poster Contest. Awards included certificates, cash prizes, and scholarships for two high school seniors, Miah Harris from Rutland High School and Mary Jane Bateman from First Presbyterian Day School, for their contributions to promoting fire safety.

“We are so proud of these students who know what it takes to stay safe when it comes to fires and how to prevent them,” said Fire Chief Shane Edwards. “It’s important we educate our younger generation as soon as possible. Knowledge about fire prevention can save lives.”

2024 Fire Safety Poster Contest Winners:

1st Place: Matthew Watson (5th Grade, Vineville Academy of the Arts)
2nd Place: Tanish Thumukunta (1st Grade, Rosa Taylor Elementary School)
3rd Place: Kailynn Paul (5th Grade, Vineville Academy of the Arts)
Honorable Mention: Brenda Cardona (4th Grade, Southfield Elementary School), Adalynn Caughey (4th Grade, John H Heard Elementary School), Zaina Mokwa (Kindergarten, Burdell-Hunt Magnet Elementary School)

2024 Fire Safety Essay Winners:

12th Grade Scholarship Winners:
- 1st: Miah Harris (Rutland High School)
- 2nd: Mary Jane Bateman (First Presbyterian Day School)
8th Grade Winners:
- 1st: Jordyn Evans (MILLER Middle School)
- 2nd: Karen De Leon-Cruz (MILLER Middle School)
- 3rd: Adam-Smith Toukem S. (Howard Middle School)
- Honorable Mention: Dianna Hooks (Ballard Hudson Middle School)
5th Grade Winners:
- 1st: Christina Taylor (Burdell-Hunt Elementary School)
- 2nd: Tamryn Clark (St. Peter Claver Catholic School)
- 3rd: Evelyn Schnetzer (Academy for Classical Education)
- Honorable Mention: Justin Donla (Springdale Elementary School)