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By Mary-Margaret Fox

Communications Technician

Sumter County Fire & Rescue received a $5,000 grant from the Sumter EMC Foundation to fund the purchase of an interactive fire safety robot known as Freddie the Firetruck. This unique educational tool will help teach local children vital fire prevention and emergency response lessons engagingly and memorably.

Freddie, the animatronic fire truck, is a one-of-a-kind educational tool. His design engages children with interactive lighting, sounds, and movements. Freddie’s unique feature is his ability to communicate with children at eye level, making the learning experience more personal. Fire departments nationwide have successfully used Freddie in their community outreach and school programs. By capturing a child’s imagination, Freddie effectively imparts life-saving lessons. He will be an invaluable asset in teaching our local youth how to prevent fires and respond appropriately in case of an emergency.

“By supporting fire and safety education, we are investing in the well-being of families across Sumter County,” said Andrea Walker, Chairman of the Sumter EMC Foundation. “We are proud to equip Sumter County’s first responders with this innovative teaching apparatus.”