Students Draw on Fire Safety Skills for Poster Contest

Firefighter and Public Education Safety Officer Sandy Ray said the 44th annual Fire Safety Poster Contest had the most submissions ever — and out of 251 posters Third-grader Alexis Schultz's was the best.

The top 12 finalists from Stow's elementary schools (including ) gathered at City Hall Jan. 12 to receive awards and enjoy a social after the winner was selected.

Justin Goldan (third grade ), Katie Goldan (fourth grade Echo Hills), Joshua Christie (third grade ), Madeleine Glloway (fourth grade Fishcreek), Emma Goss (fourth grade Highland), Mitchell Rajan (third grade Holy Family), Joseph Osmun (fourth grade Holy Family), Nick Schricknel (third grade ), Travis Shrout (fourth grade Indian Trail), Sharvi Shah (third grade ) and Katie Bunday (fourth grade Woodland) all had posters featured Jan. 12.

Ray said this year's theme for the contest was: "Protect your Family from Fire.""In 2009, throughout the nation, one person dies in a fire every 3 hours and 25 minutes. That's seven people every day. Many fatalities and property losses can be prevented in planning ahead and integrating fire safety into daily activities," said Ray, which is why she teaches the students about smoke alarms, electric safety, fire place and chimney safety, the dangers of gasoline and kitchen safety.

Schultz's poster, featuring a "Get your Clan, Make a Fire Plan" drawing was selected as the winner this year. Her poster and headshot will be featured on the fire department's safety van until another winner is selected next year. 

Last year's winner was . Have photos from the event? Add them to this post!