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ACHO DENE KOE/FORT LIARD
For years communities in the Deh Cho region have struggled to recruit volunteer firefighters. But Fort Liard's fire chief thinks he may have a way to alleviate the problem.

Robert Firth started the junior firefighting program last month to teach youth aged 15 to 17 firefighting techniques and leadership skills, while also giving them a sense of belonging. The experience, he hopes, will not only be positive for the children in the hamlet but could benefit the department in the future.

"Once these kids stick with us for a couple years, when they turn 18 then they'll be the appropriate age to actually join the fire department as volunteer firefighters and they'll already have the training and they'll certainly have the desire," Firth said. "They will just step right into being full-time volunteer firefighters."

Spots for two more youths

Four youth have joined the program but there are spots for two more. The junior firefighters meet every Wednesday for about two hours and learn various skills such as how to put on their personal protective equipment in the shortest time possible and how to man the hose.

Firth said the youth are encouraged to come out to fires and assist but they are not allowed inside the burning structures.

"We don't have the same expectations of them as we do a volunteer firefighter who has some training behind them," he said. "If they want to attend we will have something for them to do."

Sixteen-year-old Brent Kotchea decided to get involved with the program after Firth encouraged him to join. He said he couldn't see a reason not to be part of the program. So far, Kotchea said he is enjoying the program but he also finds it difficult.

"The fitness is just kind of hard," he said, adding last week they practised wearing oxygen tanks while exercising.

Still, Kotchea said he expects someday to be a full-fledged volunteer firefighter.

The junior firefighter program is supported by the community. The hamlet has agreed to pay for the youth to get physicals and equipment, including fire-resistant coveralls and gloves.

Meanwhile, the school will give students, who ask, credits for responding to fires and participating in training

"It's a win, win for the kids and the school and the community," said Firth. "The kids are responding very well and they're excited to be doing something."

Also, the program gives youth a chance to do something positive with their time instead of getting mixed up in alcohol, drugs or other illicit activities, he added.

"Teenagers get a bad rep," Firth said. "This is an opportunity for them to give something back to the community and be recognized in the community for doing something good."

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