According to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service, on average more than 1,000 wildfires burn approximately 5,000 acres of New Jersey forests each year. Jackson is a community that has seen several wildfires during the past couple of years, which is why a team of Red Cross volunteers and our lovable youth preparedness mascot, Pedro the Penguin, spent time educating 300 children at Elms Elementary School.

While reading Pedro the Penguin’s wildfire storybook to kindergarten through second grade classes, Red Cross volunteers shared important tips on how to prepare for wildfires and take action if needed. Throughout the presentation, children learned about red flag warnings, how wildfires can start, and how to make an evacuation plan. A breathing exercise was also taught, providing children with a coping mechanism for the stress and anxiety they may feel during a wildfire.

During a question-and-answer period one student asked, “What if we don’t have a place to go?”

Red Crosser Pat Melcer jumped in to assure the young student, “The Red Cross will work with people in your community to set up a Red Cross shelter. We will have things like cots, blankets and food for you and your family. We’ll take care of you until its safe for you to go home or you have a place to go.”

The presentations were topped off by an exciting guest: Pedro the Penguin! He danced around, gave hugs and high fives while children returned to their class with their Pedro the Penguin wildfire story books and stickers. Children were encouraged to share what they learned with the adults and other children in their homes.

When an emergency strikes, do you know what to do?

Pedro the Penguin and the American Red Cross can help you and your children be prepared and take action for many local hazards like home fires, hurricanes, wildfires and more. Visit redcross.org/PrepareNJ and the Prepare with Pedro video playlist.