Junior Fire Cadets, ranging from ages 9 - 13 will participate in a 2-week session. The program consists of various classes 5 days a week, Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - Noon.
The program consists of a scaled-down version of a paid firefighter required training such as proper techniques on handling ladders, fire hoses, working with nozzles, and many other duties. Cadets will also be trained in Basic First Aid.
Other topics will include: ethics and goal setting, team building, conduct codes, exercise, personal hygiene, and fostering respect of neighbors, elders and themselves.
The cadets will learn about the Temple Fire Department, its organizational structure, the firefighters, what it takes to become a firefighter and the importance of staying in school.
It is our aim that each cadet will leave this program with a better sense of responsibility and that he/she will be more accountable for their actions in their family and their community. We hope that by exposing cadets to the skills of firefighters and the rules employees must follow to achieve success, he/she will have a better idea about what it takes to accomplish their future career goals.
Firefighters have long been considered a part of American heroes. They have earned a well-deserved reputation for caring and helping people in their communities. These firefighters are held to a high degree of character and are considered to be leaders in their communities.
The youth of our community have always held a special place in the hearts of our members, and it is our wish that these youths be provided proper guidance and direction in their early years.
Recent studies have indicated that today’s youth are faced with more difficult challenges than past generations that may prevent them from productive adulthood. Our goal is to look for boys and girls from all walks of life who need a helping hand to better themselves.
The Fire Cadet program is not to be interpreted as a leisure or casual experience. This program will challenge the cadet's mind and body to “be the best they can be” within the individual’s physical limitations. Cadets should be able to take with them higher self-esteem and commitment to their community.
Please contact Santos Soto for more information at 254-298-5682 or
sasoto@templetx.gov.
Cadets will be held to the same high level of conduct that each firefighter is held to. Cadets will be expected to settle all differences peacefully through a structured chain of command.
Cadets will be required to wear the following items daily:
After the 1st week, Cadets who have complied with all rules will be issued a T-shirt, free of cost.
Cadets will be required to take 4 written examinations. These exams will contain all course material covered during the 4 weeks.
All cadets must maintain at least a 70% average in the program. Anything less than 70%, cadets will not be issued a Certificate of Training or be permitted to graduate.
All cadets will be required to complete a Fire Safety Education Project. This project will be due 1 week prior to the completion of the program.
It will consist of 4 specific areas
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Fire Prevention
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Fire Detection
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Fire Evacuation
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Fire Extinguishment
Awards
Cadets will be expected to report no later than 8 am every day. A good attendance record during the cadet program may enhance opportunities in future employment possibilities (good referrals from the Fire Department).
Attendance will be strictly enforced!
Cadets will be required to participate in daily physical training. Any Cadet who refuses to perform physical training will be dropped from the program. All physical training will be geared to the appropriate age levels.
Cadets are expected to secure their own transportation to and from the program.
Temple Fire and Rescue participates in this Intervention style program designed to teach youth Fire Safety, and the consequences of fire.
These classes include a variety of topics for the Scouts to participate and be able to earn their merit badges. Topics include First Aid, CPR, and Fire Safety/ Fire Extinguisher Training. Other trainings are available dependent upon Scouting needs.
Teaming up with different groups from the city, and the Temple Professional Firefighters Association, TFR is able to present backpacks full of school supplies for approximately 40-50 children in need at the beginning of the school year.
Working with the Temple Professional Firefighters Association, and TISD School Counselors, Temple Fire & Rescue is able to distribute coats for roughly 500 children in need of something warm to wear during the winter months.
Open to Local High Schools, applicants are judged on their personality and their knowledge of fire safety. The winner of the Title of Temple Miss Flame represents Temple Fire & Rescue at various events and parades. Temple Miss Flame also receives a $500 scholarship from the Temple Professional Firefighters Association.
Working with Texas A&M AgriLife, TFR personnel provide activities, information, and education to local high school students on safe driving, seat belts, distracted driving, and impaired driving.
On special occasions we have and use a mascot style costume to reach out to our younger citizens. Sparky the Fire Dog is an easily identifiable icon for many fire depts.
This program is under way; however, it has not been officially implemented yet. Explorer Programs are set up to teach and encourage teens and young adults that wish to pursue a career in public service. Temple Police Dept. currently operates an Explorer Program.
