Inspiring the next generation of firefighters

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Camp Molly

Self-identifying women, non-binary and two-spirit youth can apply to take part in Camp Molly 


Do you have a passion for your community and a drive to give back? Consider a future in fire services! Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service (VFRS) is presenting a unique opportunity for 35 self-identifying women, non-binary and two-spirit youth aged 15 to 18 years to learn what it’s like to have a career in fire services.

 

Camp Molly will be held in Vaughan from Thursday, Oct. 16 to Sunday, Oct. 19 at the VFRS training facility at the Joint Operations Centre (2800 Rutherford Rd.).

 

Applications are open now until Saturday, Aug. 16, available online and in accessible formats upon request. Successful applicants will be notified by the end of August.

 

What to expect at Camp Molly?

This camp will provide youth, who are curious about pursuing a career in fire services, with an introduction to various topics, including:

  • auto extrication
  • communications
  • emergency vehicle technician
  • firefighter survival
  • fire investigation
  • fire prevention
  • fire suppression
  • forcible entry
  • hydrants, hoses and ladders
  • medical
  • public education
  • search and rescue

 

Participants will also have an opportunity to perform many firefighting tasks and training activities, including:

  • basic firefighting skills
  • catching fire hydrants
  • managing hose lines
  • live fire demonstrations
  • personal protective equipment orientation
  • use of Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)
  • search and rescue operations
  • auto extrication rescues
  • use of aerial and ground ladders
  • forcible entry procedures
  • Combat Challenge competition

 

At the end of the week, camp attendees will experience a graduation ceremony celebrating a job well done.

 

To qualify to attend Camp Molly, you must:

  • be a self-identifying woman, non-binary or two-spirit individual, aged 15 to 18 years old as of Thursday, Oct. 16 (the first day of Camp Molly).

  • be a resident of Vaughan.

  • be in good physical condition and have a positive attitude.

  • have a valid provincial health card.  

  • provide your own transportation to and from the VFRS training facility. 

  • complete the online application form by Saturday, Aug. 16 andinclude a short, typed essay (no more than 500 words) describing why you would like to attend the camp and what qualities you believe someone in fire services should possess. 

  • commit to attending all Camp Molly activities and required dates as follows:

    • orientation and station tour – Oct. 15 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the VFRS training facility.

    • camp dates – Thursday, Oct. 16 through Sunday, Oct. 19, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

 

VFRS is also looking for volunteers to help with various roles throughout the four-day camp. Visit the VFRS Camp Molly webpage to learn more and apply. 

 

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