**  JUNIOR  FIRE  CADET  PROGRAMME  **

July 14 - August 15, 2008

The Junior Fire Cadet Programme of the Barbados Fire Service is scheduled to be held this year from July 14 to August 15. The programme, which is in its eighth year will be conducted at the Arch Hall Fire Station, St. Thomas, and is aimed at not only teaching the cadets fire safety, but also preparing these young men and women for the greater responsibilities of adulthood.

Twenty participants, ages 13 to 15 years will be introduced to elements of fire response, which include the basics of hose and hydrant drill, ladder drill, lines and knots, fire prevention, fire protection, fire behaviour, extinguishers, squad drill and first aid. The fire cadets will also undergo training in water safety taught by the Barbados Coast Guard. Instructors will observe the fire cadets on hikes and nature walks intended to test their physical and mental endurance.

At the end of the programme, the fire cadets are expected to be proficient in fire safety and foot drill, as well as demonstrate leadership, etiquette, discipline and time management capabilities. They will also be expected to prepare and present group projects of not less than 500 words on community related topics or issues. A practical demonstration involving the cadets will be conducted at the end of the five week training programme.