Penhold Fire Cadet program celebrates latest grads

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“I want to do what’s best for the community and help in the best way I can. Before I joined the Fire Cadet program, I had no idea about the fire service or what they did,” said Clarke.

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Those taking part in the Fire Cadet program also earn high school credits. It is managed by the Penhold Fire Department, sponsored by ATCO Gas, and follows a fully certified fire training program.

Pendergast said the program has been embraced by current firefighters and that it has ensured a steady flow of trained and dedicated volunteers for the department.

“It’s been a great success for us. There have been five kids since we started the program that are now on with the fire department and fully qualified firefighters,” said Pendergast.

Penhold Mayor Dennis Cooper was also on hand for the ceremony and said that he is incredibly proud of the Fire Cadet program. He noted that Penhold is currently the only Fire Cadet program in operation outside of Calgary or Edmonton.

Cooper said that the program provides a unique set of learning experiences and skills to the kids involved.

“They have a chance to experience firefighting and everything from being a volunteer to helping the community. The team building and understanding is something that the Cadets get first-hand experience with,” said Cooper.

The Fire Cadet program has been involved with the Penhold Fire Department helping during the windstorm clean up and Cooper said that’s been an experience the kids would otherwise never have had.