At a glance
• The release form and other contest information can be found on the fire department page of the Forsyth County Web site at www.forsythco.com.
• For more information, call Michele Cranford, fire safety educator, at (770) 781-2180, Ext. 4028.
• Posters should be submitted no later than March 16 to: Fire Department of Forsyth County; Attn: Michele Cranford; 3520 Settingdown Road, Cumming, GA 30028
The Forsyth County Fire Department encourages local third-graders to take part in its annual fire safety poster contest.
"We had a really great response last year when we held our first … contest," said Fire Capt. Jason Shivers. "We are looking forward to hopefully receiving even more entries this year."
The competition is open to all third-graders in Forsyth County public and private schools, as well as home-schooled students.
Three winners will enjoy a pizza party with their class and local firefighters.They and three runners-up will have their artwork displayed in county buildings.
Fire Chief Danny Bowman said the event is a way to promote the involvement of young people while increasing awareness.
"One of the department’s goals is to prevent incidents from occurring through public education," Bowman said. "This poster contest is a wonderful way to do just that.
"We are hopeful that, while creating their posters, the students will talk to their parents about fire safety. It really becomes a way we can engage not only our youngsters but our entire community in a very positive way."
Students are encouraged to submit their own original designs and artwork by March 16. Clip art and copyrighted characters or logos will not be accepted.
Posters should be created on paper (minimum dimensions of 8.5 by 11 inches and maximum dimensions of 18 by 24 inches) with the required release form securely attached to the back.
Posters will not be accepted on poster board.
A five-member panel will begin judging the submissions March 19.
All artwork submitted becomes the property of the fire department and may be reproduced.