A multi-disciplinary project, where papermonkey played the role of puppet master. It resulted in the creation of ‘Sparkie’ the firefighting mascot, helping kids learn about fire safety in a way that’s fun, memorable and confidence-building.
The Opportunity
Teaching kids about fire safety isn’t easy. The information is serious, but the delivery needs to be engaging, age-appropriate, and memorable.
ACT Fire & Rescue wanted an education program that could satisfy all three, while aligning with the Australian Curriculum and giving teachers, families and caregivers the tools to support learning. The goal was simple but vital: to ensure children felt confident and prepared if ever faced with a fire emergency.
The Solution
Developing an approachable and trustworthy personality for ‘Sparkie’ brought to life through engaging illustrations and video animation was key to delivering the relatable messaging required for this specific and impressionable audience.
Based around a series of short videos, firefighters Jess and Matt were cast to support Sparkie and act as friendly guides for kids. Working with experts to develop the script, we employed a clever use of traditional filming methods with animation to explain serious concepts in a way that felt safe and approachable. The messaging was underpinned through worksheets and activity books that kids could take home.
The result was a comprehensive fire education program that schools, families and caregivers could easily integrate into their curriculum, empowering children across Canberra to feel more prepared and confident in the face of an emergency.
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