(Bonnechere Valley Fire Department/Facebook)
First responders from across the Ottawa Valley will be working together to teach the next generation.
The Bonnechere Valley Fire Department’s Junior Firefighter Program will be welcoming Renfrew OPP Constable and Community Safety Officer Brianna Babin to their weekly training meeting this Wednesday, January 22nd, in Eganville to teach their cadets about the elements of their soon-to-be counterparts in the local police force, as well as how police and firefighters work together when responding to calls for help within the community.
Babin says she is excited to collaborate with the BVFD, including her brother and volunteer firefighter Brendan Rousselle, as they teach the fundamentals and skills aspiring first responders need while also providing them one-on-one mentorship for their schooling and job applications.
The Bonnechere Valley Fire Department began the Junior Firefighter Program back in March 2024 to much success, with cadets already successfully accepted into co-op programs from local fire departments across the Ottawa Valley.
Space is still available for cadets aged 15 to 18 to join the program, but space is limited. Applications can be found at Opeongo High School or the Bonnechere Valley Municipal Office.
(written by Kasey Egan)