Last week, Eugene Springfield Fire hosted its Fifth Annual Young Women’s Fire Camp. There were 13 campers between the ages of 13 and 18, and seven other young women who returned for their second summer to serve as Support Staff to the 6 female Firefighters who coordinated and led the camp.
The goals of the camp are to teach participants self-confidence, leadership, team building, social skills and FUN, along with basic training in firefighting, emergency medical treatment, and self-defense. On the final day, the campers witnessed a live fire demonstration and entered the fire training building escorted by fire department personnel. This gave campers the opportunity to wear firefighting gear and experience live fire in a controlled environment. Additionally, Assistant City Manager Sarah Medary participated in several sessions, and joined campers in the live fire exercise.
To learn more about how to prepare to become a firefighter paramedic, or to inquire about next year’s camp, please visit our websites: www.eugene-or.gov/fire; www.ci.springfield.or.us/dept_fir.htm, or contact Training Chief Matt Ennis at 541-682-7131.