WMFD Junior Firefighters hold second training meeting

Youth program continues to be a success

By DON WILBURN

donaldfwilburn@gmail.com

The second year of the Junior Fire_ghters program is currently taking place this month, with around ten teenagers aged 14-18 participating in the various hands-on activities. Led by city Fire Chief Barry Ealy, the _rst meeting, last month, began at Station 1 where participants were given a tour of the facilities and Engines, as well as a meet and greet with the staff.

This past Saturday during the second of six planned meetings through September, Inspector Malik Walker led the various training exercises throughout the day, including testing physical abilities, hands-on training with _re extinguishers, agility tests, equipment

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tryouts, and medical and life-saving techniques such as hands-on CPR.

Participants also had the opportunity to climb the extended _re truck ladder, work with extrication equipment, spray water from hoses, and even participate in the challenging dummy drag activity.

Inspector Walker emphasized the importance of programs like this in recruiting the next generation of _re_ghters in West Memphis. He acknowledged that each participant has their own strengths and weaknesses, but with the right training and support, they can overcome any obstacles and fears they may have. Overall, he believes the day was a great success and hopes to continue inspiring young individuals to pursue a career in _re_ghting.

This year’s junior (and hopefully future) firefighters attended their second meeting.

Photo by Don Wilburn