Kids learn about forestry occupations

Senior forester Mike Weston shows Legend Gaddy, 8, of south Fort Myers, how to adjust a fire suit at Lakes Regional Library in south Fort Myers.

A helicopter landed at Lakes Regional Library in south Fort Myers and area children had an opportunity to meet Extreme Heroes from the Division of Forestry.

The division spent three days at the library, which hosted a program to teach children about fighting fires and fire prevention.

"He loves the police and helicopters and I'd like them to understand the job ... and that they are heroes" said Bibiana Paez, who brought her children to the last day of the program. "I want them to appreciate the work that they are doing."

The jobs that students heard about included a discussion on Smokey the Bear and wildfire fighters. The division brought a mock helicopter to the library to better explain to children how it works.

"He loves helicopters and I'm hoping to get him on a helicopter ride in Alaska soon," said Jennifer Manekin of south Fort Myers, the mother of 2-year-old Ben. She brought her son to the library in hopes of giving him a better understanding of how a helicopter works. "I want him to have a familiarity with it and that way he knows about it."

Children were allowed in the cockpit and dressed in firefighting gear. They also had the opportunity to see a water bucket up close.

"We connected with the forestry department and we thought it would appeal to all ages," said Kristy Sutorius, the senior children's librarian for the Lakes Regional Library. "Our idea was to give families an activity during the holiday break."

The activities included informal talks with children and parents about different pieces of firefighting equipment and games about fire awareness.

"They were really excited when they heard the library was offering this," said Jonel Gomez of south Fort Myers, who brought her two children to see the helicopter. "The kids both said they want to be pilots together."

Gomez's children were inspired to become pilots because they have an aunt and a retired grandfather who are pilots.

"They were really excited and this is the first time that they get near a flying machine," Gomez said.