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Camp hoping to ignite firefighting careers

Delta is one of six departments offering Camp Ignite to introduce women to firefighting

The Delta Fire Department is one of several across the region hosting a camp this week aimed at igniting a passion for firefighting in young women. Camp Ignite, which started yesterday, is tailored to show young women the possibility of a career in firefighting, the trades and other non-traditional roles.

The camp, which began in 2011 in Vancouver, is now hosted by six Lower Mainland departments including Coquitlam, Port Moody, Maple Ridge and the Justice Institute Fire and Safety Training Centre.

It's the first year Delta has taken part in the camp, whose mission statement says it aims to "provide strong role models and a venue to empower young women to challenge themselves and learn new skills in a unique team environment that focuses on the firefighting profession."

The four-day camp teaches campers a variety of skills and gives them a glimpse into the life of a firefighter. Campers will learn about the basic fundamentals of fire suppression, personal safety equipment, the basics of ground practices and terminology, apparatus and equipment training, CPR, as well as fitness and nutrition.

Activities also include rock climbing and high angle training.

On Friday, campers will be at Hall 7 in Tilbury where they will take on a HazMat scenario.

They will also take on the firefighters combat challenge course. The Delta Fire team (Team Westshore Terminals) won the Firefighter Combat Challenge world championship in 2013.

For more information about Camp Ignite, visit www.campignite.com.