Huge attendance for inaugural Public Safety Fun Day

The event attracted more than 150 people who enjoyed the first-ever Charlotte Volunteer Fire and Rescue Services Public Safety Day on Saturday, Oct. 21.

Children jumped and squealed when the DHART helicopter landed on the Town Hall Green, but the day was educational for all ages. Attendees also enjoyed an obstacle course, Vermont State Police K-9 demonstrations with the amazingly smart Kimbra, and fire safety live training. And Charlotte was even recognized as a HeartSafe Community.

The DHART (Dartmouth-Hitchcock Advanced Response Team) helicopter flies 160 mph and takes care of most critically injured or sick patients and can transport as needed to UVM or hospitals south such as in Boston. They carry certain blood and sedation capability (sometimes needed for patient airway work) beyond that of any ground ambulances.

Folks watched as a volunteer was extricated from a simulated car crash. All doors were safely removed in just under 14 minutes, start to finish. The event was held at no cost to the town, and all food was donated. Proceeds from lunch and a 50/50 raffle will go toward the purchase of an automated external defibrillator for the rescue marine unit.

Contact Rescue Chief Kevin Romano or Assistant Fire Chief Rob Mullin at (802) 425-3111 for more information. CVFRS is located at 170 Ferry Road in Charlotte.