Devon Students Engage in Firefighter Training for Lifesaving Skills

Young people in Devon are getting ready to participate in firefighter training, which aims to impart “essential lifesaving skills.” Twelve students, ranging from 12 to 14 years old, have been enrolled in the Phoenix programme by the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service. This initiative is designed to deter fire-setting and serious violence. According to the service, the programme is expected to cultivate confidence, enhance physical fitness, and improve safety awareness among the participants. Jonathan Evans, the programme lead, stated: “We know it works and makes a lasting impact on the programme attendants’ lives as we have received lots of feedback from people who have taken part, telling us that it helped them to find focus at a time when they really needed it.” Since its establishment in the early 2000s, the Phoenix Programme has conducted over 150 courses for approximately 1,500 young individuals, as reported by the service. Mr. Evans, who serves as an education programme officer and firefighter, expressed his hope that participants would be motivated to become “proactive and confident” members of their community. The students enrolled in the programme attend schools such as Marine Academy, Sir John Hunt Community Sports College, Millbay Academy, and UTC Plymouth. Participating fire stations encompass Plympton, along with nearby Camel’s Head and Crownhill. The service indicated that participants would engage in various activities, including squad drills, pumps and hose drills, instruction on the safe use of breathing apparatus, and education on road safety. The week is set to culminate with basketball training alongside the Plymouth Raiders and a passing out parade, it was further stated. Funding for the Phoenix Programme in Plymouth has been provided by both the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service and Plymouth City Council/Sport England. The force expressed its hope that additional funding would facilitate the programme’s expansion into new towns and cities in 2025, specifically mentioning Barnstaple, Bridgwater, Taunton, and Exeter. For additional information, BBC Devon can be followed on X, Facebook, and Instagram. Story suggestions may be sent to spotlight@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC does not assume responsibility for the content of external websites. Details on the BBC’s approach to external linking are available.