There’s a new face helping the Statesville Fire Department teach fire and life safety, and he has scales, a helmet and an important mission.
Meet Fire Marshal Pete, the Fire Marshal Dragon, a new fire safety character created to help children and families learn how to prevent fires, prepare for emergencies and stay safe.
Known as FM Pete, the character was inspired by Statesville Fire Marshal Allen “Pete” Morrison and brings a fun, approachable personality to the Fire Department’s ongoing public education efforts.
Through FM Pete, the Statesville Fire Department will share age-appropriate safety information on topics including fire prevention, home escape planning, cooking safety, lithium-ion battery safety, seasonal hazards, calling 9-1-1 and understanding what firefighters and fire marshals do in the community.
“Fire prevention starts with education, and the earlier we can begin those conversations, the better,” said Statesville Fire Chief Glenn Kurfees. “FM Pete gives us another way to connect with children and families and make important safety lessons memorable.”
While FM Pete may be new, his mission reflects the work the Statesville Fire Department does every day to prevent emergencies before they happen. The character will be incorporated into educational materials, community outreach, special events and other fire prevention initiatives.
FM Pete will also help bring fire and life safety education to schools, libraries, camps, community organizations and other groups throughout Statesville.
Families can meet FM Pete, learn more about his story and explore fire and life safety resources at fire.statesvillenc.net/pete-the-dragon.
Keep an eye out for FM Pete around Statesville. He has plenty of fire safety lessons to share!
About the Statesville Fire Department
The Statesville Fire Department is committed to protecting the safety and well-being of the Statesville community through professional, rapid response and a dedication to service. The department provides fire suppression, emergency response, fire prevention, public education and other services designed to protect and improve the quality of life for those who live, work and visit Statesville. Built on a proud history of service, the department continues to grow and adapt to meet the changing needs of the community while maintaining a commitment to professionalism and placing others before self.
About the City of Statesville
The City of Statesville is truly a diverse community that welcomes new people, new voices and ideas, new industry, and business. We have already made significant investments in our downtown amenities, our business sector, our schools, our infrastructure, and more is on the horizon. We are creating a dynamic future for ourselves as we build on our successful history and the positive energy we experience today, all the while incorporating the values and quality of life that we cherish. To learn more visit www.statesvillenc.net.
