Gabriola Fire hosts junior firefighting camp

Firefighters Ben Hooton (left) and Flynn McCreath with the attendees of this year’s Junior Firefighting Camp held in partnership with the Gabriola Recreation Society. Submitted photo

Gabriola Volunteer Fire Department

Submitted article

In July, the Gabriola Volunteer Fire Department successfully hosted a Junior Firefighting Camp in partnership with the Gabriola Recreation Society.

The camp was aimed at educating and preparing local youth for emergency situations. Running every Wednesday for three hours throughout the month of July, the camp welcomed participants aged 12 to 18, providing them with essential skills and knowledge. The program was designed to equip young people with a foundational understanding of handling various emergencies. The camp covered several critical areas:

Kitchen Fires: Participants learned the importance of fire prevention in the kitchen and practiced using fire extinguishers. They were taught to never use water on grease fires and to keep a lid handy to smother small flames.

Downed Power Lines: The camp emphasized the dangers of downed power lines and the importance of maintaining a safe distance. Youth were trained to report such incidents to authorities immediately and avoid touching or approaching the area.

Motor Vehicle Incidents: Attendees were introduced to basic first response techniques for motor vehicle accidents, including checking for injuries, providing first aid, and understanding how to safely manage the scene until professional help arrives.

Hazardous Environments: The camp also covered recognizing and responding to hazardous environments, such as chemical spills or gas leaks. Participants practiced proper safety protocols and learned the importance of using personal protective equipment.

Medical Emergencies: Basic first aid skills were a significant part of the camp. Participants learned how to perform CPR, address choking, and manage other common medical emergencies.

The camp not only provided hands-on training but also instilled a sense of responsibility and preparedness in the youth of Gabriola Island.

The volunteer fire department hopes that the skills learned will empower these young individuals to act confidently and safely in emergency situations.

The Gabriola Volunteer Fire Department extends their gratitude to all the volunteers and participants who made the Junior Firefighting Camp a success.

A big thanks to Ben Hooten for being the juniors mentor and leader.

For those interested in future events or volunteer opportunities, the Department encourages reaching out to their office for more information. Phone 250-247-9677.