The Central Ohio Fire Museum and Learning Center is housed in an old fire station in downtown Columbus. As the name implies there is a museum. It is pretty neat, although not hands on. The museum portion has exhibits of old fire engines, hook and ladder trucks, fire alarm boxes, and all sorts of equipment used by fire fighters for the past 150 yrs or so.
There is also a learning area where children learn about fire safety. If you schedule a tour your group can have one of these presentations. They are divided into two categories: Preschool and School Age.
Preschoolers learn the differences between "tools" and "toys." The fire fighter explains that "tools" are used by adults and includs things such as knives, hammers, and matches. He also explains that "toys" are for children. Examples of both are used and the children have to determine if they are tools or toys. Preschoolers also see a fire fighter completely decked out in his gear. This is to help them learn that fire fighters aren't really scary, but are there to help you and that you shouldn't hide from them. The total presetation takes about 20-30 min.
School age children learn about fire safety in the kitchen such as moving the toaster away from drapes, making sure electrical outlets aren't overloaded, etc. These children also practice escaping from a bedroom filled with smoke. They are also able to see the aftermath of a fire in a bedroom. The children also develop a fire drill/plan of their own as a part of this program.
Lastly, there is a hands on play area for the children. It is small, but the kids enjoy it. There is a fire engine to play and and a fire pole to slide down.
The Central Ohio Fire Museum and Learning Center is not free. Parking is free, but admission is not. Cost is $6 for adults and $4 for children. They do offer group rates. Their hours are Tuesday through Saturday 10a-4p. The museum is also available for parties.
Address: 260 N. Fourth St.
Columbus, OH 43215
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