Firefighters mentor school students
New Zealand firefighters and Hamilton Boys’ High school have developed a youth development programme.
Hamilton firefighters have tackled a different task by mentoring teens in a youth development programme.
The New Zealand Fire Service and Hamilton Boys’ High School partnered together to develop a five day course.
In its third year running the programme helped 12 high school students who were recognised as having low self-esteem, a lack of confidence and struggled in team situations.
Students participated in a number of firefighting and rescue related training activities that were designed to build self-confidence and team work.
Hamilton senior fire fighter Jess Kukutai said it is rewarding to see the students achieve their goals throughout the programme.
Activities included search and rescue, training in basic firefighting skills, line rescue, obstacle course, fire safety and first aid.
Student Dominic Ralm, 14, said: “I think the course taught us team building skills and how to co-operate with people a lot better.
“They really helped us with our attitudes and discipline as well.”
He felt a mixture of nerves and excitement during a rescue related activity involving a hot-zone circuit.
The students entered a darkened room set at 54 degrees in teams of three, wearing full firefighter gear and a set to help them breathe.
In the heat they had to carry a fire hose while climbing over and under obstacles, as well as rescuing dummies.
Kukutai said at by the end of the week the students were standing tall, proud and confident.
