Youth

Alarm Girls Fire Camp Prepares Youth for Firefighting Career

A possible future firefighter learns the basics of handling a fire hose, while also experiencing the thrill of managing the power of water.
A possible future firefighter learns the basics of handling a fire hose, while also experiencing the thrill of managing the power of water.

Marriottsville, MD- The Women’s Committee of the Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services (HCDFRS) will hold a two-day camp for young women, ages ten through fourteen, who are interested in learning more about the fire service and what it takes to become a firefighter. This 1st Alarm Girls Fire Camp will be held at the Public Safety Training Center (PSTC) in Marriottsville August 13 and 14.

“Our firefighters serve a vital role in protecting our lives and our properties. We want to encourage the young people in our community to learn about what these brave men and women do and yet have fun at the same time,” said Howard County Executive Allan Kittleman. “This camp gives these girls an excellent opportunity to do just that. We hope they get the most out of the time spent with our first responders.”

Young women, ages ten through fourteen, are encouraged to apply as there are a few spots left open for the camp. Daily activities will include team building exercises, a station visit, CPR training, how to use a fire extinguisher, a live burn demonstration, and more. The schedule will be from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm on both days. After the camp has concluded, each child will receive a certificate of completion at the graduation ceremony. Family and friends are encouraged to attend graduation.

“This camp is a great opportunity for these young ladies to build a sense of inclusion responsibility and teamwork which are both essential parts of a diverse fire service,” said Fire Chief John Butler. “Hopefully we will see some of these hardworking kids again here in Howard County when they’re ready to start their careers or volunteer service as firefighters and paramedics.”

If your child is selected to attend, parents are encouraged to attend an orientation meeting from 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm on August 1 to provide further information about 1st Alarm Girls Fire Camp. The meeting will take place at the PSTC, located at 2200 Scott Wheeler Drive in Marriottsville.

To fill out an application, please go to https://www.howardcountymd.gov/GirlsFireCamp. For more information please contact Battalion Chief Christine Uhlhorn: FD1804@howardcountymd.gov or call (443)-865-4814.