As spring break is underway for many students, a group of Esquimalt youth is spending this week gaining firsthand experience in firefighting. Esquimalt Fire Rescue Services (EFRS) is once again running its annual Youth Fire Academy, now in its fourth year, in the township.
The participants, seniors from Esquimalt High, are taking part in an intensive, boot camp-style program that mirrors the training completed by new firefighter recruits. Over the course of the week, they will engage in practical, hands-on instruction, including hose handling, nozzle use, search and rescue procedures, auto extrication, and CPR.
"The Youth Fire Academy is meant to push students while also motivating them," said Fire Chief Matt Furlot. "Throughout the week, they're exposed to the same demanding training our recruits go through. They'll build skills in areas like fire suppression, rescue operations, and vehicle extrication skills that truly make a difference in emergencies. Our goal is for them to walk away with a clearer picture of what it means to serve as a first responder and a stronger appreciation for community safety."
In addition to skill-building, the program is designed to introduce students to potential careers in emergency services. Participants will suit up in full firefighting gear, ride aboard fire apparatus, and train at multiple locations throughout Esquimalt. This includes exercises at the department's training facility, where they will take part in simulated structural fire scenarios.
"By the end of the program, I hope these students not only gain practical, life-saving abilities like CPR, but also see how meaningful their contributions to the community can be," Furlot added. "If this experience sparks an interest, I want them to understand that the fire service offers an incredibly rewarding path to helping others."
Upon completing the week-long academy, students will leave with new skills, hands-on experience, and a deeper understanding of the vital role first responders play in keeping the community safe.
