January marked the first session of the firefighter pre-cadet program at Cranberry Portage’s Northern Technical Centre on the Frontier Collegiate Institute campus.
The 110-hour program was developed in partnership with Frontier School Division and Manitoba’s Office of the Fire Commissioner (OFC).
The intent was to teach students through hands-on training exercises what it takes to be a firefighter in Manitoba.
In addition to learning key skills and topics necessary to pursue this career path, the themes of life skills and community involvement figured prominently.
Delivering the program were training specialists from the OFC and the Frontier School Division. They introduced cadets to an array of foundational skills needed for success in firefighting and public safety.
The program was developed to meet the persistent need for trained community members in both firefighting and public safety across the province.
Course instructor Lory Neufeld, fire prevention officer with the Cranberry Portage Volunteer Fire Department, said the success of the program hinged on the combined efforts of those who contributed space, equipment and other assistance.
The eight course participants, 18 to 22 years old, were from seven different Manitoba communities.
