PENHOLD – The success of the Penhold Fire Cadet program continues.
Two cadets graduated from the program this year in a ceremony at Penhold Crossing Secondary School on June 22.
The three-year program is a joint partnership between the Penhold Fire Department and Chinook's Edge School Division and is managed by the Penhold Fire Department.
“The program is in its third year and this is the second graduation class we've had,” said Jim Pendergast, Penhold fire chief. “It's paid for and sponsored by ATCO Gas.”
Students receive credits every year towards their schooling.
“They get five credits for successfully completing the program each year.”
Since the Penhold Fire Cadet program began it has been a great success, noted Pendergast.
“Three original graduates are now firefighters of the Penhold Fire Department and two graduates this year are now probationary firefighters on the department,” he said, noting once cadets graduate from the program they must apply and be accepted by a fire department.
“Becoming a fire cadet was the biggest opportunity I've ever had. It made me aware of an exciting career path and gave me skills to be successful in life," said Ryan Clarke, a graduating fire cadet.
Hannah Linski was the other graduate from the program.
"I loved learning about how to respond in emergency situations and how to work all of the equipment," said Linski.
The three-year program is designed for students in grades 10,11 and 12, said Pendergast, noting some cadets have completed the program in two years by attending weekend training, as well as additional training outside the classroom.
Fire cadet graduates are certified to be a firefighter anywhere in Canada, said Pendergast, adding cadets learn a variety of skills and are trained on equipment and proper program procedures. That includes hose handling, search and rescue, operating breathing apparatus, vehicle extrications, climbing ladders and rescuing people out of multi-storey buildings.
“They learn a lot about the science behind the behaviour of fire and they learn how to scientifically ventilate buildings and (deal with) the different stages of fire,” said Pendergast, noting interest in the program is increasing.
“It's a highly successful program,” he said. “This year we're anticipating to have a lot of cadets in the program starting in September.”
Jim Pendergast, fire chief
"Three original graduates are now firefighters of the Penhold Fire Department and two graduates this year are now probationary firefighters on the department."
