By Ron Semple

Special to the Enterprise

The Advance Fire Department promises campers “three fun-filled days packed with excitement”  at its 3rd Annual Fire Camp on June 22, 23, and 24 at Station 12 on NC 801 South.

Capt. Ronnie Robertson, camp coordinator, said this year will be “even more hands-on” than in the past.

For example, campers in full turn-out gear will deal with an overhead sprinkling system similar to those used to protect schools, churches and factories. “I suspect turning it off will involve a lot of water and a lot of fun,” said Robertson.

Campers are drawn from rising 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th grade boys and girls. Parents can register their youngster on line at www.advancefiredepartment.org or by calling 998-8181.

The fee is $50 but Robertson said, “We won’t turn anyone away who is truly in need.” He said he hoped scholarship sponsors would step forward to help.

Campers will get a Fire Camp t-shirt, a meal and two snacks a day as well as a meal for themselves and their families at the graduation ceremony on June 24.

Campers will learn about fire behavior, hose handling, fire extinguishers, driving simulation, the hands-on use of firefighting gear and equipment, vehicle extrication, CPR and first aid.

This year’s camp will also feature water safety training and crawling through a maze while wearing self-contained breathing apparatus with the face-piece blacked out.

Robertson said the emphasis throughout will be safety and “team building.”

Campers will be divided into teams, led and closely supervised by Capt. Jamie Hoffman and Firefighter Andrea Stewart. The teams will compete ain a number of events.

While the Advance Fire Department is the lead agency for the first camp, Robertson noted that instructors and aides will be provided by many area fire departments, rescue squads, EMS, police departments and Davidson County Community College.

Some of those helping will be cadets from the first two camps.