Young people are the future of firefighting
As the volunteer fire service crisis deepens in PA, one trend is clear. The average age of first responders is increasing, while fewer and fewer younger people are joining the fire service. One of the keys to building a strong and reliable emergency response network for the future is to engage the younger generation, and we believe high school fire clubs are doing just that.
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Young people are the future of firefighting
As the volunteer fire service crisis deepens in PA, one trend is clear. The average age of first responders is increasing, while fewer and fewer younger people are joining the fire service. One of the keys to building a strong and reliable emergency response network for the future is to engage the younger generation, and we believe high school fire clubs are doing just that.
ONE LOCAL FIRE CLUB
LEADS THE WAY
The Danville High School Fire Club (DHSFC) was founded in the fall of 2023 to introduce students to the world of opportunities that the volunteer fire service has to offer, with the ultimate goal of connecting students with their local firehouses where they can become members and begin volunteering. This model can be used to create fire clubs in high schools around the state to train and equip a new generation of volunteers.
SOME OF THE
BENEFITS TO STUDENTS
Gives students a mature support network – firefighting is as much about supporting the community and mentoring new members as it is preventing and extinguishing fires.
Connects students with community members with diverse backgrounds – can help with career identification and recommendations.
Helps instill responsibility – not abusing privileges.
The camaraderie and personal support received through a fire company cannot be overstated. There’s a natural feeling of needing to excel and be at your best when you’re relying on those around you in life-or-death situations. The people at a fire company genuinely care and help other members become better versions of themselves.
Students graduate with employable skills – can pursue part-time while attending secondary education, or pursue full-time while expanding their existing skillset.
Teaches skills that can be applied anywhere, and are needed everywhere. Helps individuals become more proactive and observant.
Helps establish a penchant for volunteerism – not only the importance of the work being done, but also the sense of gratification and values that accompany it.
HOW FIRE CLUBS CAN HELP
HOW FIRE CLUBS CAN HELP
HOW FIRE CLUBS CAN HELP
Volunteer firefighting requires a tremendous amount of training both in the classroom as well as outside in the elements with hands-on exercises. For the average high school student, carving out the time to take these classes and attain necessary state certifications is very difficult while juggling school work, extra-curriculars, jobs, and family time.
Our long term goal is to connect high school fire clubs with instructors and Career Training Centers so that students can earn the certifications necessary to become first responders during their high school years, fully equipping them to serve their communities as young adults.
Are you interested in the fire club program?
A WIN/WIN FOR STUDENTS AND THE FIRE SERVICE
COLLEGE LIVE-IN PROGRAMS
Pennsylvania offers many opportunities for college students to live free of charge at a local fire station in exchange for their volunteer service. These programs provide mutual benefits for both the student and the fire company. Contact us for more information on College live in programs in PA!