Greenville firefighters seek junior program

GREENVILLE – The local fire department hopes to resurrect a junior firefighters program last offered in the community more than five years ago.

The former program, which was offered through Boy Scouts in conjunction with the fire department, was very successful, according to Greenville Fire Chief John Cobb. He said the department gained some “really good members.”

Though the program lapsed, Cobb believes there is interest among local youth, ages 14-18, for a similar program offered by the fire department through the cooperation of Greenville schools.

The object of the proposed program, which is linked to high school academic performance, is to teach young adults basic firefighting skills before they are eligible to become volunteer firefighters, according to Cobb. Until they become adult firefighters, the graduates of the program will help with general duties including work details and fundraising.

It is an effort to “try to encourage the youth to participate, volunteer and be community service-oriented,” Cobb said Monday.

The ultimate goal of the program, however, is to add younger members to the department to replace older ones who are contemplating retiring, according to Cobb. Even if the students who participate move to another community after high school, a fire department will benefit, he said.

The curriculum for the program includes equipment safety and orientation, basic fire behavior, fire suppression methods and procedures, and traffic laws. Each student will be required to pass a written and practical examination at the program’s conclusion.

The school’s part would include a reference check of potential students. If the program is approved by the Greenville School Committee next month, those who successfully complete the program would be eligible for a credit toward graduation.

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