Every year schools in Nelson compete for the honour of winning the annual Fire Drill Competition. The winning school is awarded a cash donation, courtesy of the Nelson Insurance Brokers Association, and becomes the caretaker of the coveted trophy for the year.

Schools are graded by fire department staff, who arrive at the school unannounced to pull the alarms and observe the proceedings.

Students and staff at the winning school (and each year there are many contenders) display superior self-control and organization as they quietly exit their classrooms to regroup at the predetermined site for roll call. School staff ensures that all doors are closed and that all students are accounted for.

For more information on the Fire Drill Competition contact the fire hall.