Cadets take a trip to the fire station

Wednesday night, Cadets from the East Saugatuck CRC spent some time learning some safety information and getting some insight on the life of a firefighter.

We started in the kitchen, where many good discussions begin. They learned that firefighters are more than just co-workers. They live, eat, and work together like a family. They learned that the kitchen table is not just a place to eat. It is also a learning place, a counseling place, and a healing place for many crews.

They walked the main hall and saw names on plaques, pictures on walls, and other names on a long list in the display case. They learned that list of names included every firefighter that has ever worked for the Graafschap Fire Department. This is to pay respect for the ones who came before us and paved the way. They briefly looked for names they new, which some certainly saw grandparents, uncles, etc.

A tour of the apparatus bay and explanation of every truck was their next activity. They learned the difference between an engine, a tanker, and a ladder truck. The dads were just as enthused looking at all the trucks, especially the 1984 Chevy square-body brush truck.

The most exciting part of the evening came when they got to expend some of their energy and excitement on some drills. Three evolutions, based on the Firefighter Combat Challenge were introduced. Teams of two were formed to encourage working together and building each other up.

Hose advancements, dummy drag, and hose streams provided a great sense of accomplishment and teamwork for these young men.

It took more than two to handle the 2.5″ “big” hose, so they adapted all on their own and got the job done. It was our pleasure to host and share a bit of what we do.