By Bill Carey
FireRescue1
WASHINGTON — The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) announced the release of an updated Junior Firefighter Program Starter Kit to help departments build a successful youth program.
This latest Starter Kit was designed to serve as a one-stop resource to help departments develop a junior firefighter program. Step-by-step guidance covers everything from funding to member retention. Information on liability, setting requirements, and onboarding advisors is also included.
The program contains 10 steps for success:
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Secure Department Support
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Assess Liability
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Onboarding Advisors
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Determine the Appropriate Age Range
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Establish What Youth Members Can and Cannot Do
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Set the Minimum Requirements for Youth Participants
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Formalize the Program’s Operating Guidelines and Other Documents
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Find Funding
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Recruit Youth Participants
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Utilize Resources to Maintain Your Program
According to the NVFC, junior firefighter programs provide youth opportunities to learn about fire and emergency services safely. Junior Firefighters learn to build life skills such as teamwork, leadership, responsibility, and community service. Fire departments using junior firefighters get needed non-operational support and an excellent recruitment instrument, strengthening the bond between the department and the community.
The update was made possible with support from California Casualty.
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