[Click HERE for pictures] On Sunday, November 4th, Hatzolah of Los Angeles hosted its Third Annual Safety Fair in Valley Village. This event was originally conceived by concerned members of Hatzolah as a way to bring the community and various government agencies together to offer information and tools related to safety and disasters. Over 3,000 people attended this year’s Fair. JFS/ Aleinu – Safe Kids, the Los Angeles Police Department, the Department of Water and Power, Fire Department, Emergency Preparedness Department, and other government agencies and programs were on hand to offer information. They were supplemented by vendors offering Kosher survival foods, survival aid kits, and other items useful in the event of a disaster.

One of the many attractions available was the Yogi Bear Shakey-Quakey School House earthquake simulator. Children learned first-hand what it would feel like to be in an earthquake. Another big hit was Wilshire the Fire Dog. Wilshire taught the children various safety techniques such as how to “Stop, Drop & Roll”, and how to crawl on the floor under smoke. He drew a large crowd for each of his performances. Kids and parents alike looked forward to having a photo taken with Wilshire. The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power presented an excellent workshop on electrical safety both in and out of the home. Particularly useful was the demonstration of why it is important to stay away from outside power lines. They showed how even a wooden pole can provide a path to electrocution if it contacts the wires bringing power into your home.

At the center of the fair was the equipment present sent by the Los Angeles City Fire Department. The Hazmat truck, the Urban Search and Rescue unit, along with the Heavy Rescue Truck were on hand for the kids and adults to see up close.. There were also an Engine, Hook and Ladder and Rescue Ambulance present to round out the fire apparatus.  The highlight of the festival though was demonstration with the “Jaws of Life”. Using the various tools they have available, the LAFD “rescued” a trapped victim of a car crash by removing the doors and eventually the roof of a crumpled vehicle. This demonstration brought thunderous applause from the large audience.

Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed the All-You-Can-Eat BBQ. Among the menu items were french fries, potato salad, coleslaw, green salad, and of course hotdogs, hamburgers, chili, and chicken. All cooked by the dedicated Hatzolah Members.

“This was a very successful event” Rabbi Michoel Bloom, Special Events Coordinator for Hatzolah stated. “Our goal was to provide good information and access to local agencies for community members. We met that goal.” Hatzolah’s President, Zvika Brenner added “This was invaluable. Our community had the opportunity to learn and have a good time, all in one afternoon.”

(LA Hatzolah / YW News Desk)