Youths learn about fire prevention Published July 29, 2014 By Airman 1st Class Devin Boyer 17th Training Wing Public Affairs GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- The 17th Civil Engineer Squadron Fire and Emergency Services hosted its ninth annual Junior Firefighter Camp here July 21 to 25 which provided hands on training in fire prevention and safety to children ages 10 to 12. The camp kicked off with an orientation followed by four days of training. From first aid to search and rescue, the camp covered key points of firefighting duty. At the end of their experience, the children graduated from the Junior Firefighter Camp. "We have a junior firefighter camp as a way to give back to the public," said Jason A. Garcia, Fire Prevention Assistant Chief. "One of the best ways that we can address fire safety is starting with the kids, so we target the 10 to 12 age group because they are at that point when they're really paying attention and are interested." During the camp, firefighters demonstrated how to use their equipment, to include crushing a full can of tea with the Jaws of Life. "My favorite part of the firefighter camp was seeing the Jaws of Life and being with most of my friends here," said Radek Spatz, Junior Firefighter Camp participant. In addition to the Jaws of Life, the firefighters used hydraulic cutters to cut through a two-by-four. The demonstration shows the power of their equipment while explaining what they are used for in a real life situation. The firefighter camp is an opportunity for children to learn about Air Force firefighter careers and allows them to experience things they would not get from video games or television. "The Junior Firefighter Camp gives the kids a break from that sedentary lifestyle we get used to nowadays," explained Garcia. "The kids go out there and do a lot of hands on training, so they're out there in the heat and working which, in turn, builds character." The Goodfellow Fire Department plans to continue this program in the upcoming years. "We would like to keep the program going as long as possible," added Garcia. "It's been going strong and we get better every year." For more information about the Junior Firefighter Camp, contact Garcia at 325-654-5577.
