A group of young people will have their achievements recognised tomorrow after completing Barrow fire station's 'Young Firefighters Phoenix Course'.
The innovative scheme helps young people from Barrow to build their self-confidence and improve teamwork and communication by training them in basic fire and rescue service skills like first aid and rudimentary fire fighting.
Photographers are invited to attend the passing out parade at the station on Phoenix Road from 1:00pm on Friday 29 June, where family, friends and instructors will watch the scheme's successful Young Firefighters perform hose drills and other exercises before being presented with certificates of achievement.
Firefighters are seen as positive role models and the Young Firefighters scheme is helping crews to forge closer links with young people who may underachieve at school or struggle with social problems.
The 10 young people, who have attended the course over the last twelve weeks, were nominated for the scheme by St Bernard's RC School, Park View Community College of Technology, Walney School, Thorncliffe School, Alfred Barrow School, and Dowdales School.
Connexions Cumbria have worked in partnership with Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service to design the course which is delivered by serving firefighters.
County councillor Elizabeth Barraclough, cabinet member responsible for Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service, said: "The Young Firefighters' scheme gets across some important safety messages and helps these youngsters become more aware of the community around them and how they can better contribute to it."
People can arrange to receive a free Home Safety Check by contacting Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service's freephone number 0800-358-4777.
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Media enquiries to Mark Graham, Media Officer on 01228-606337