Cadets

In 2006, the District applied for and was awarded, a four-year grant called SAFER (Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response). The grant money has been used to establish and maintain the Pacific County Fire District 1 Fire Cadet and Resident Volunteer Programs. Both of these programs were started in the fall of 2007.

The Cadet Program is a two-year program designed for Ilwaco High School juniors and seniors who are interested in pursuing a career in Emergency Services. It provides students with entry level firefighter training in a safe and realistic training environment. Students participating in the program spend one class period each school day at the Seaview Fire Station learning basic firefighting skills, and studying the IFSTA 5 Firefighting Essentials curriculum. They have taken field trips to construction sites in order to learn about construction features, fire suppression systems, and code requirements. They train with SCBA’s (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus), structural gear and fire extinguishers. Every Friday, they undergo physical fitness training  to help build endurance, strength and agility. Besides the basics of fire fighting, students also learn communication skills, leadership, teamwork, time management, self-confidence, work ethics, and responsibility.  Cadets also participate in the Great Columbia Bridge Crossing, a 10k run/walk, and at the end of the school year they attend competitions with fire cadets from other departments in the region. Students who successfully complete the class each year receive high school credit as well as college credit towards a Fire Science Degree from Clatsop Community College.

In addition to the education they are receiving, these Cadets assist the community in a variety of ways. Last year they volunteered time at the Ocean Beach Education Foundation fundraiser and the Oysters and Art Fundraiser for the local Boys and Girls Club. Once a month, they assist the staff at the local animal shelter. Each year they attend a meeting of the Southwest Pacific County Rotary Club, where they speak individually about what the Fire Cadet program has meant to each of them. In September, the cadets participate in the Great Columbia Bridge Crossing, a 6.2 mile run/walk, and at the end of the school year they attend competitions with other students in Cadet Programs elsewhere in the region.

Click here to see Fire Cadet training videos and other events.