April 9, 14 Wing Greenwood’s Fire and Emergency Services hosted a visit from 1st Kingston Beavers. From the fire truck exhaust removal hoses to the firefighter’s favourite chair, and, most importantly, the alarm room’s big red button, the Beavers were eager to learn all they could during their field trip.
In every corner of the station, firefighters answered the many “Whys?” and “What is thats?” from excited little voices. The experience included a chance for Beavers to use a hose line, and get a closer look at some of the heavy equipment, including vehicle cutters, firefighters use in an emergency. Best of all were the opportunities to tour inside the fire trucks and spray water from the “canon truck” hose.
These opportunities, Sergeant Chris Burden says, helps improve children’s understanding and interest in the roles of first responders within their community. Although fire trucks are always cool, emergency situations may be loud and scary for younger children, which is why these visits to the fire hall are so meaningful for providing explanations that help build reassurance and understanding of the firefighters’ roles.
“With these tours and familiarizations, we help to replace fear of the unknown with awareness and understanding.”
The 14 Mission Support Squadron Fire and Emergency Services team was happy to receive such an enthusiastic group of visitors.
“The excitement and interest by the kids was a motivational lift to all firefighters,” Burden says. “It means a great deal for us to meet with kids in a controlled, fun environment, because it allows firefighters to demonstrate and explain what we do and answer the many questions they have.”
The fire hall field trip was coordinated with 14 Mission Support Squadron’s Sergeant Chanel Halverson, one of 1st Kingston Beavers’ volunteer leaders. Halverson joined the colony last year because it is a great way to create a community and support network for your family, especially when you are a military family posted to a new location. Halverson says joining a group like Scouts or Girl Guides eases her family’s transition during postings because the programs help families get to know the area, meet other local families and introduce the children to new friends outside of school. Plus, for her, volunteering as a leader is a rewarding way for military members to improve their leadership, organizational and management skills; all while contributing to their community. The Kingston Scouts groups are always looking for new volunteers to welcome to their team, and encourage anyone interested to email commissioner@1stKingston.ca
