The Romeoville Fire Department concluded their first Youth Fire Camp on July 15th, wrapping up a week of drones, water drills, vehicle tours, first aid training, and more. Consisting of 17 kids between the ages of 10-13, the camp gave them a chance to see what it takes to be a firefighter/paramedic.

 “Looking at the camp agenda, I think there are a lot of adults that would have loved to participate in this camp,” laughed Mayor John Noak. “A big thank you to our fire department for planning and running this camp and giving local kids such a great summer experience.”

Hosting a fun summer camp for kids is always a positive, but there is another, longer term benefit baked in. In recent years, it has become harder and harder to find firefighter/paramedics to fill open positions. This camp gives kids an extended look at what the job is actually like and just may spark interest in them to pursue the job when they get older. For now though, they’ll settle for extinguishing a flaming dumpster and having a lunch of burgers and hot dogs expertly cooked by Deputy Fire Chief Murray. The Youth Fire Camp is expected to return next summer.