Phoenixville Junior Firefighter Program Prepares Future Leaders

PHOENIXVILLE, PA - Many children dream of becoming a firefighter, but many don’t act on their impulse.

Maybe they aren’t given the proper direction. Maybe they don’t see the direction at all.

The Junior Firefighter program aims to empower children in the area to train for the future, while improving themselves in the present:

Are you a Teenager or Parent of a Teenager looking for:

- An activity that will provide discipline and life experiences?

- Something that may provide a boost to a resume?

- Something that may be a springboard to a career?

- Additional social interaction?

The program allows teenagers aged 16-17 to become a volunteer firefighters in a learning role, the fire department said in a Facebook post.

Junior Firefighters can do many of the things Firefighters do, but with some limitations for additional safety and well-being as outlined by state Child Labor Laws.

Junior Firefighters may begin attending fire academy classes to become certified as a Firefighter or Emergency Medical Technician (EMT).

They may also respond on emergency calls, participate during in-house training, attend meetings, serve on committees, and help keep the firehouse and fire trucks ready for action.

“Most of our current firefighters began as Junior Firefighters, some over 40 years ago,” the department said. “In fact, all but one of our current Fire Officers began as Junior Firefighters in Phoenixville or surrounding areas.”

The video below explains more about the junior firefighter program. To apply or for more information, contact the Phoenixville Fire Department.