If you live in New Brunswick, you know the growing threat of wildfires. Teenage girls are now pulling 200 pound men across sea containers in Hillsborough to prepare for this reality. They are participating in the Maritime Ignite Fire Academy. This new summer camp aims to boost firefighter recruitment across the province.

Training the Next Generation

Camp director Jessica O’Dell welcomed the first cohort of girls in August. A cohort of boys will follow. O’Dell has worked as a New Brunswick firefighter for 16 years. She found inspiration to launch the camp after attending an all women firefighting symposium in Ontario.

She told CBC News that the camp gives teens the tools they need to succeed. “You just have to take that leap and do it,” O’Dell said.

The continuous schedule includes forcible entry, search and rescue, basic firefighting skills and first aid training. Guest speakers include retired military personnel and experts from Tri County Ground Search and Rescue and the Department of Natural Resources.

Meeting a Growing Demand

Olivia Robichaud joined the first cohort. She always wanted to become a firefighter. She remains determined despite the early mornings and demanding schedule.

“When I learned about this camp, I was really interested because I really do like to help people and I like to learn new things,” Robichaud said.

New Brunswick faces a growing need for firefighters. Volunteer departments struggle with recruitment while the province experiences more frequent wildfires. Last year saw 448 reported fires that burned almost 3200 hectares of forest. Around 400 municipal firefighters stepped up to fight these blazes.

“We’re assisting DNR more now than we have in years,” O’Dell said. “Our scope is getting bigger and bigger and bigger.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Maritime Ignite Fire Academy?

It is a new summer camp in Hillsborough that trains teenagers in basic firefighting skills to help boost recruitment in New Brunswick.

What skills do teens learn at the camp?

Participants learn forcible entry, search and rescue, first aid and basic firefighting techniques.

Why does New Brunswick need more firefighters?

The province is experiencing more frequent wildfires and volunteer departments face recruitment challenges. Last year alone saw 448 reported fires.