COQUITLAM, B.C., March 11, 2020 – Coquitlam Fire/Rescue, in partnership with School District No. 43, is continuing into the second year of their Junior Firefighter Program. Eleven local students from grades 11 and 12 will spend part of their spring break, March 13 – 20, learning what it takes to become a firefighter.
Application Process
Participants had to meet specific criteria via a thorough application process including an in-depth application form, personal interview and fitness test in order to meet the academic and physical requirements of the program.
Program Highlights
Goals of the program are to provide students the opportunity to learn experientially about the career opportunity to become a firefighter and to diversify the recruitment pool of Coquitlam Fire/Rescue.
Training for the junior program is a condensed version of the eight-week firefighter basic training program and includes vehicle and equipment familiarization, fire extinguishers, ladder climbs, scene assessment and basic first aid as well as CPR / AED (defibrillator), hose and nozzle drills, high angle equipment and rappelling, auto extrication, drills and a public service component.
Visit www.coquitlam.ca/juniorfirefighter for program info and to watch a video of the 2019 Junior Firefighter Program.
Background
Coquitlam Fire/Rescue piloted the Junior Firefighter program in 2019. By the end of the program, the 12 participants had gained a greater understanding of the job and several expressed an interest in pursuing a firefighting career. Due to the pilot program’s success and continued interest from students, Coquitlam Fire/Rescue and School District No. 43 chose to continue with the program.
Corporate Sponsors
In addition to the support of Coquitlam Fire/Rescue and School District No. 43, the 2020 Junior Firefighter program has received financial support from the following businesses via the Coquitlam Corporate Partners program:
- AW Fireguard Supplies
- Commercial Emergency Equipment
- Guillevin International
- Nucor Environmental Solutions
- Team Sales
- Wholesale Fire Rescue
Since its launch in 2014, the Corporate Partners program has built strong relationships with the business community and successfully provided a new source of revenue to enhance innovative programs like the Junior Firefighter program as well as Parks, Recreation and Culture Services events, programs and initiatives.
Partners receive benefits such as direct public exposure; a variety of experiential marketing opportunities; recognition in marketing materials, online and in print; and positive relationships with the community.