Budding firefighters learn skills of the trade in Lake Oswego

When kids climb the 100-foot aerial ladder the Lake Oswego Fire Department uses to put out blazes located in high-up buildings, they feel like they can conquer pretty much any task, according to firefighter Candace Grimes.

For the first time, the fire department hosted a camp where 14-18-year-old boys and girls learned some of the skills it takes to be a firefighter Friday, July 26 to Sunday, July 28 at Westlake Park.

“We wanted to give them a day in the life of the fire service and have an environment not only to hone in on firefighter skills but to develop confidence,” Grimes said.

During the three-day camp, the kids learned how to use a fire hose and chainsaw, throw ladders, swing an ax and extricate people from a crashed car, while also practicing search-and-rescue tactics, the aforementioned ladder climb and more. The kids were encouraged to push themselves but to do only what they felt comfortable with.

“You have a different kid leaving Sunday than the one who entered Friday,” Assistant Fire Chief Kristine Artman said. “They realize those limitations they imagined were easily surpassed with hard work, teamwork and someone teaching them the skills.”

Artman was heartened to hear that most of the kids said after the camp that they would strongly consider a career in firefighting, and all agreed the skills they learned were useful.

However, Grimes added: “We would love for all these kids to be firefighters one day. They would all be great at it. This camp isn’t geared to solely pump out firefighters; it’s to create mentorship and guidance and help them find different paths.”

Artman was particularly impressed with how the firefighters worked with the kids one-on-one and emphasized how many friendships were created through the camp.

“It’s a pretty unique experience. It makes everyone feel good, not just the kids. It builds community, which is sadly missing in a lot of our lives these days,” said.

The department hopes to run this camp every year.