On Wednesday, April 26, 2017, Junior Firefighters Jacob Labonte, Jordan Marzolf, students at Unionville High School, Tyler Broomell, a student at Avon Grove Charter, and Brandon Cole a student at Kennett High School completed their Pennsylvania State Fire 1 Certification through the Octorara Homeland Security and Protective Services Academy. This three-year academy prepares students for entry-level positions in firefighting, emergency medical services, and law enforcement.

In addition to their school work, both students have worked hard to complete various certifications: CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation), First Aid, Traffic Incident Management Safety, and several FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) certifications. They will finish the year by receiving their Pennsylvania Department of Health VRT (Vehicle Rescue Technician) and by next year they will work towards receiving their Pennsylvania State EMT (Emergency Medical Technician).

We are proud of the level of dedication and professionalism FF Labonte, FF Marzolf, FF Cole, and FF Broomell have shown over the last several months, all while while balancing a full course load. We hope to see them continue their education and excel as senior members of our company when they turn 18.

Click the link below for more information about the Octorara Homeland Security and Protective Services Academy.

Photos courtesy of Junior FF Ruthie Roberts, Kennett Fire Company.