New West teens will get the opportunity to put out fires and cut apart a car at this year’s youth firefighter program.
The New Westminster youth firefighter program, being held for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, runs from July 10 to 14.
“They will get four days of instruction at the Queensborough fire hall. They will do one day out at the Justice Institute of BC for live burns,” said Glen Bailey, acting assistant deputy chief with New Westminster Fire and Rescue Services. “It is open to New Westminster high school students.”
The program is open to Grade 10 to 12 students (from any school), with preference going to applicants who live in New West.
Applications are due by May 26, with interviews being conducted from June 5 to 8 and the final selection of the candidates being completed by June 16.
“We are taking 12 students, with the priority going to Grade 12 students,” Bailey said.
Bailey said participants will have a lot of fun and they’ll learn a lot.
“It is to allow young people to see what we do and maybe consider firefighting as a career,” he said.
During the in the five-day program, students will get their CPR certification, put on firefighters’ bunker gear and self-contained breathing apparatus, learn how to use different hoses. On the final day, they’ll head to the JIBC in Maple Ridge where they will be able to put out a live fire.
New Westminster Fire and Rescue Services is offering the program in partnership with the City of New Westminster, the New Westminster School District and the Justice Institute of B.C.
“This exciting program offers a condensed and immersive fire academy-like experience, providing instruction on firefighting skills, personal protective equipment, and first aid. With regular attendance required, you’ll be fully engaged in the program, which aims to give you a taste of the firefighting profession,” said a notice about the program. “This is a unique chance to challenge yourself, learn new skills, and gain valuable workplace experience. The YFFP is designed to be a fun, educational, physical, and mentally stimulating program, perfect for those interested in pursuing a career in the fire service.”
Bailey said past attendees have said they had a lot of fun and gained a better understanding of the work done by firefighters.
Details about application requirements and application forms are available online or at the Glenbrook fire hall at 1 East Sixth Ave. Completed applications packages (which include a resume and a reference letter) can be dropped off at Century House, the New West Youth Centre, Moody Park Arena, any of the city’s three fire halls, Queen’s Park Arena or the Queensborough Community Centre.
