Teens pg 1 8-18-11
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- Category: Past Issues
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Explorers
Nicholas Wootton, left, and John Colburn III, attended the Connecticut Fire Academy's Introduction to Fire Service Program. Courtesy photo.
By Linda Lemmon
Town Crier Editor
WOODSTOCK --- Two local teens discovered the hard work and camaraderie of fire fighting when they attended the Connecticut Fire Academy's Introduction to Fire Service program in July. They are both Explorers from the Muddy Brook Fire Department.
John Colburn III, 14, said one of the best parts was coming into the fire academy "not knowing each other" and a week later leaving as best friends --- "just like a real fire station."
Nicholas Wootton, 15, said he attended because he'd like to be a volunteer fire fighter in the future. "I thought it would be something I'd enjoy," he said.
Wootton said it was a "great program - very vigorous." He added he knew what it would take to be a firefighter after going to the academy. "There was never a dull moment."
Asked what his favorite part of the program was, Wootton said it was learning search and rescue because a fire fighter has to use all his senses to find someone.
William Heckendorf, Explorer post leader, said this is the second year that Explorers from Muddy Brook have taken part in this training opportunity. Explorers are treated in much the same way that the adult career firefighters are.
He said they were taught about pump operations, advancing hose lines, forcible entry, working with ladders, fire behavior, and basic fire fighting. "The cadets were expected to behave professionally, adhere to a strict schedule, and march in formation in this disciplined para-military environment. Of course," he added, "there was some time for fun too, when the cadets were allowed to swim in the pool and spend time relaxing with other students from other fire departments around the state.
Heckendorf said the program is open to the young members of Connecticut fire departments, known as Explorers. It is divided into two groups, with 14 and 15 year-olds attending a one-week session, and 16 and 17 year-olds attending a separate week. Muddy Brook Fire Department has had an Explorer post for the past 10 years, and currently has 11 active youth members. The Explorers attend monthly meetings, monthly training, and participate in emergency calls for service alongside the adult members of the organization. Anyone aged 14-17 that is interested in joining MBFD as an Explorer can contact Heckendorf at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Wootton put it in a nutshell: "I feel this is a great program for anyone that enjoys fire fighting."