'Mission impossible stuff': Firefighting camp aims to attract more Indigenous people to EFRS
A new initiative by Edmonton Fire Rescue Services is trying to increase Indigenous recruitment.
The first Miyowatisiwin Camp Inspire took place over the weekend, inviting participants to explore a career in firefighting.
The program is based on Camp Inspire, which is aimed at attracting women and gender-diverse people to EFRS.
"It was to help build application and bring awareness to the fact of inequity within the fire department," said Chris Turner, EFRS recruitment and outreach liaison. "This one is different now three years in, it's for the Indigenous population."
The camp was open to 20 participants of any gender who self-identify as Indigenous.
They spent three days training at the Poundmaker Firefighter Training Centre in West Edmonton, learning about gear, techniques and safety.
Sunday was the final day and participants put everything they learned together for a simulated fire attack and search and rescue.
Grayson Lawrence most enjoyed exercises where the team broke down doors and drywall to gain access.
"It was like some mission impossible stuff," Lawrence said.
Hoping to join EFRS someday, he said it was good to see what goes into being a firefighter.
"There's so much that goes on in this job, whether that's the mental, the physical, [the] commitment," he added. "And it's not just about doing the job right, it's about caring about what you do at the same time."
Turner said the camp is designed to show Indigenous people that they can have a career in EFRS.
"It actually is an inclusive service that everyone can do, [we're] trying to break down those barriers of, 'Maybe that's not for me. Maybe I couldn't do that.'
"Well, here's an introduction of all the things that we [do], and maybe they can see that it is possible."
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Broadcaster and commentator Rex Murphy dead at 77: National Post
The National Post is reporting that Rex Murphy, the pundit and columnist who hosted a national call-in radio show for decades, has died.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Millions of cyberattacks per hour as B.C. government investigates multiple breaches
Careful attention to government statements and legislation is required to get a handle on the level of risk British Columbians’ information is under, as investigators probe multiple breaches under a continued barrage of attacks.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
New 'Lord of the Rings' film coming in 2026
The Oscar-winning team behind the nearly US$6 billion blockbuster 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies is reuniting to produce two new films.