Copyright 2006 The News and Observer
By DENEESHA EDWARDS
The News & Observer (Raleigh, North Carolina)
Twelve-year-old Rachel Brown and 13-year-old Destinee Linder started a new friendship this week.
They were the only females at the City of Durham’s Second Annual Junior Fire Marshal Program at the Community Family Life Center at Lyon Park.
They had the opportunity with 20 other adolescents to become firefighters during their spring break.
“It’s fun learning how to prevent fires,” Rachel said, with a smile on her face before adding, “and meeting new people.”
This free program gave children from 11 to 17 years of age the opportunity to be introduced to and gain an understanding of the careers in the fire department. It was sponsored by the City of Durham Fire Department, Durham Parks and Recreation and the N.C. Office of the State Fire Marshal.
“We wanted them to gain a clear understanding of what we do,” said Kenneth Crews, Fire Marshal with the City of Durham. “We stand for more than fighting fires. We have several functions in the community and teach fire safety.”
Jeff Forde, director of the Community Family Life Center, said nine children completed the program last year. He said the program is successful and the word is getting across to the youth.
He also said the program focused on exposing the adolescents at a young age to new programs and careers.
Rachel participated in the program last year and wanted to do it again.
Even though she and Destinee were the only females there, they said they could keep up with the male participants.
“They was in the weight room saying, ‘Rachel know she can’t do it, she too weak,’” Rachel said. “I proved them wrong.”
The youth also had the chance to extinguish fires, watch fire rescue demonstrations and participate in blood pressure screenings.
Rachel and Destinee both enjoyed putting out the fires and getting their blood pressure checked.
Thursday the children graduated from the program and received a certificate, t-shirt and a medallion.
“We do a lot of safety programs,” Linder said. “Plus they inspire you to do something with your life.”