BASIC firefighting skills, first aid training and advice on nutrition and fitness are all on offer as part of a brand new course just launched by Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service.
Fired Up is an exciting new project for 16 to 25-year-olds who are not in education, training or full-time employment.
It aims to develop a wide range of skills and knowledge that will build confidence and motivation enabling the young people who
take part to reach their goals.
Based at Ashington Fire Station, the course will run for nine weeks with the focus being on firefighting skills.
Each of the 11 participants has been issued with their own personal protective equipment and learning to become a team player will be essential as they work towards the BTEC Award in Basic Firefighting Skills.
Fired Up is about much more than just firefighting. Course participants will be encouraged to develop 'life-skills' including safe driving and first aid.
They will also take part in special sessions on how to write a CV, job searching and interview techniques.
Completing a volunteering project is another key aspect of the course where the young people will be able to experience the rewards of making a positive difference to their own community.
Chris Prior, Northumberland Fire and Service's lead instructor for the course, said: "Fired Up is a great opportunity for these young people to increase their employability.
"The course will enable them to develop teamworking skills, self-discipline, community awareness and a recognised qualification too.
"Techniques such as working a pump from a hydrant with a crew of five may be alien to them now but by the end of the course these firefighting skills will have become second nature.
"Fired Up is a challenging course but staff from Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service will be on hand to encourage and support all the participants over the coming weeks."
For information, contact Deborah Brown, on (01670) 534666.
