The Calgary Fire Department has launched a local fire camp

The Calgary Fire Department (CFD) is partnering with the City of Calgary's Office of Indigenous Engagement to launch its first Indigenous Fire Camp aimed at providing a unique opportunity for Indigenous people interested in pursuing a rewarding career in firefighting. The camp, scheduled for April 26 – 28, 2024, is designed to be an immersive experience that will introduce participants to the skills and knowledge needed in the firefighting profession.

Local Fire Camp provides hands-on training, valuable insight into the firefighting profession, and an opportunity for participants to learn new skills and interact with experienced Calgary Fire Department firefighters.

Camp Details:

• Date: April 26-28, 2024
• Location: Calgary Fire Training Academy and Multi-Agency Training Centre, 5727 23 Avenue SE
• Application deadline: February 23, 2024
• Website: calgary.ca/IndigenousCamp

The camp is open to people of all genders, including First Nations, Métis, urban Indigenous and Inuit living in Treat 7. Candidates must be 18 years old before the camp starts.

The application process is now open, and interested individuals are encouraged to visit calgary.ca/IndigenousCamp for more information and to submit an application.

The Indigenous Fire Camp covers various aspects of firefighting, including simulated fireground training, emergency response procedures, teamwork and physical fitness. Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with CFD professionals, ask questions, and gain hands-on experience in a supportive and encouraging environment.

Calgary Fire Department Deputy Chief Tom Jukes expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, saying, “Calgary Fire Department is excited to provide a unique opportunity for local residents interested in a career in firefighting. We believe diversity strengthens our team, and this boot camp is an important step toward increasing inclusivity in the fire service.”

“CFD is constantly adapting our programs to be gender and culturally inclusive,” said Fire Chief Steve Dongworth. “One of our top priorities at CFD is our focus on increasing diversity and inclusion and creating a work environment where our employees and the Calgarians we serve feel valued and respected. This camp is an important step towards achieving this goal.”

CFD Assistant Deputy Chief Tom Jukes added, “CFD offers programs like the Cadet Program, Camp Calgary and our Bucket Brigade Camp to show people what it's like to be a firefighter. We've had a lot of success with them and look forward to bringing the best of these camps to our local fire camp.”

For more information on Indigenous Fire Camp, visit calgary.ca/IndigenousCamp.

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