Last month, nine young people from Orkney completed a ten week programme that looked at developing firefighting and rescue skills.
The Fireskills course also contributes towards the youngsters’ leadership, team building, first aid, health and safety and manual handling experience.
The programme was delivered in partnership between the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and the area’s Council’s Community Learning, Development and Employability Service (CDLE).
Kirkwall Airport’s Fire Service was part of the team who supported the training. The airport was able to show their specialised firefighting and training equipment alongside a tour of the station.
Margaret MacRae, Kirkwall Airport Fire and Operations Manager, said: “It was great to see the enthusiasm and the skills learnt by the candidates throughout their Fireskills programme.
“We have been involved with this positive and worthwhile programme for a number of years now. We used the role of a firefighter, who relies on drills and routines, to prepare the young candidates for future challenges.
“Their evening with us included practical skills with hot fires and a station tour of our equipment and operational vehicles.
“Those in our Airport Fire Service who were involved in the practical demonstration at the Fire Training Ground were very complimentary about the young group. They were a well drilled and competent bunch.
“At Kirkwall Airport, we always welcome groups for continued learning and development. We are keen to showcase future career opportunities we have within HIAL for all skill sets and age groups.”
Read the full story on the Orkney Islands Council website: Congratulations to the latest Fireskills graduates (orkney.gov.uk)