Federal Grant helps the Grayslake Fire Protection District Launch it's Newest Teaching Tool.

The Grayslake Fire Protection District has debuted it's newest fire prevention tool, a 28 foot trailer designed to bring fire prevention to schools, neighborhoods and festivals. The trailer and contents were provided using a federal grant awarded to the Grayslake Fire Protection District which will help the fire prevention bureau bring their message of safety to a large number of people. The National Fire Sprinkler Association Northern Illinois Chapter and Century Sprinklers also provided items for display and training. The Trailer will use both visual and text displays, interactive exhibits, and demonstrations.

     The trailer, named the "Mobile Public Education Unit", is equipped with it's own generator to power the displays and the large amount of interior lighting. The trailer is also equipped with air conditioning and a 28 foot exterior awning for visitor comfort on extremely hot days. Another feature is the large exterior ramp for ease of entry and wheelchair accessibility. Also included in the grant was a public address system to allow the fire prevention bureau to speak to large groups.

     The trailer design allows the fire prevention bureau to easily change the interior to match different safety items they wish to talk about or tailor it to specific age groups. According to Lt. Joris Lillge, a member of the Public Education Trailer Committee, "The Mobile Public Education Unit is designed to attract residents to teach them the dangers of some simple home safety hazards and how to prevent them." Some dangerous items which safety information will be added will include house fires, carbon monoxide, candles, retention ponds, and a great deal more. Also added to the trailer will be displays of some firefighting equipment in which the Grayslake Fire Department uses to keep its residents safe.