La. Fire Department Offers Junior Firefighter Program

The Houma Courier, La.

Aug. 17—The Bourg Volunteer Fire Department is launching a junior firefighter program that aims to equip teens with practical skills while becoming familiar with emergency services work.

The department will hold its first meeting for the program, which is open to those between ages 14 to 17, on Sept. 10 at the Bourg Fire Station.

Fire Chief T.J. Pellegrin said he got his own early start in the field with the Bourg Volunteer Fire Department. Now, he'd like to see a group of Bourg's own junior firefighters trained and ready to tackle fires as soon as they turn 18.

Although the junior firefighters will not be allowed into an emergency scene's "hot zones," or areas that pose an immediate danger to their life and health, they will receive instruction on how to combat fires and respond to calls.

They will also be able to assist on emergency calls with a wide array of support services, such as grabbing equipment, readying air packs and helping the firefighters get dressed.

"When they turn 18, their training (will have) brought them up to where they should be ready to start being an active fireman." Pellegrin said.

Even if members don't choose to go into the firefighting field, the program will give them a glimpse into other similar careers, as well as give them lifelong skills that could come in handy when confronted with an emergency.

Members will also be able to attend medical training classes and potentially become a certified emergency medical responder once they reach age 16.

"We can set up a positive environment for kids for them to learn skills that can help them both today and in the future," said Mark Stevenson, Bourg Volunteer Fire Department assistant fire chief. "CPR they learn today may save someone's life 20 years from now, even if they don't become a fireman, EMT or policeman."

Since the department announced the program less than a week ago, it has seen about a half dozen people show interest. Pellegrin said he'd also like to get the members' parents involved.

"Hopefully we could bring all the family here to learn and be a fireman and help the community out," he said.

The program, which will meet at least once a month, will also teach leadership and teamwork skills—both of which are critical to emergency services.

"Fire departments are based off of teamwork," said Daniel Blanchard, the lead coordinator for the program. "It's not going to happen with just one person. Everybody has a specific job and it all comes together as one."

Those who are interested in the program can pick up applications at the Bourg Fire Station and must have a parent present during the first meeting.