Injury is a leading cause of death in Israeli children today. As a paramedic, Ezrat Achim’s founder, Avraham Kopp, has seen and treated far too many injuries, and his goal and mission is to prevent needless injuries.
Throughout the year, Jewish holidays and traditions, which are wonderful opportunities for family togetherness and joy, pose extra risks- menorah lighting, firecrackers on Purim, burning the chametz before Pesach, Lag b’Omer bonfires- even shabbos and yahrzeit candles, have all resulted in burns and severe injuries and even tragic loss of life.
Since 2009, Ezrat Achim, in conjunction with the Beit Shemesh municipality and Keren Yosef, has been leading the battle for fire safety awareness. Various campaigns are organized throughout the year, with a focus on particular holidays, which empower children to be responsible for their own safety and that of their family members.
Educational posters and flyers are distributed throughout Beit Shemesh and volunteers present specially designed workshops in local schools, which illustrate the inherent dangers. Raffles and prizes are distributed to children. Ezrat Achim’s annual pre-Purim campaign has resulted in a 95% decrease in injuries related to the use of firecrackers and other explosives marketed to children.
