THE fire service has created a virtual town in which young people can learn about fire safety.

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service has worked with Mid and West, and South Wales fire authorities in a collaboration with Matmi, the digital studio company, to produce a collection of innovative new educational resources for the public and teachers to help young people learn about hazards such as fire safety, road safety and water safety.

In the virtual town, called Sparkton, young people will be able to spot dangerous hazards, dress a firefighter whilst learning about their kit and equipment, and take part in quizzes, as well as watch videos and play educational games about fire, road and water safety.

It is hoped the interactive games, available in both Welsh and English, will provide an effective and entertaining learning method.

Speaking on behalf of Wales' fire and rescue services, Kevin Roberts, chair of the all-Wales Children and Young People Group, said: “We worked alongside Matmi, a digital studio and consultancy, to produce our very own version of Sparkton here in Wales. This interactive town is available in both Welsh and English.

"Sparkton was originally developed by Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service but has been developed over the years and here in Wales it has been developed further to be available in the Welsh language.

“Its purpose is to help educate children in an entertaining way, whilst in a safe environment – whether at school or at home. As technology is so popular with young people, we felt this was the perfect way of capturing their imagination."

To play the Sparkton interactive game, visit www.nwales-fireservice.org.uk