Calgary Fire Department Launches Third Annual Indigenous Firefighting Training Camp
The Calgary Fire Department has officially opened registration for its third annual Indigenous firefighting training camp, continuing its commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion within emergency services. This innovative program, which first launched in 2024, provides First Nations, Métis, Urban Indigenous, and Inuit participants with comprehensive hands-on training in firefighting fundamentals.
Program Details and Registration Information
Registration for the camp opened on Tuesday, with the three-day intensive training scheduled to take place from May 1 to 3 at the Calgary Fire Training Academy and Multi-Agency Training Centre located at 5727 23 Avenue S.E. Prospective participants must submit their applications by February 28 through the official online portal at calgary.ca/indigenouscamp.
The camp welcomes individuals who identify as Indigenous and are at least 18 years of age before the program begins. Notably, applicants must not currently be engaged in the firefighter recruitment process, ensuring the camp serves as an introductory experience rather than a direct pathway to employment.
Building Skills and Community Connections
According to Assistant Deputy Chief Tom Jukes, who serves as the camp's executive director, the program offers multiple benefits beyond technical training. "Participants get to build confidence, leadership and teamwork, while learning fire safety skills that they can bring back to their families and communities," Jukes explained.
The camp's curriculum includes:
- Hands-on experience with personal protective equipment
- Training with firefighting tools and equipment
- Realistic firefighting simulations and drills
- Search-and-rescue scenarios
- Forceful entry techniques
- Vehicle extrication procedures
- Mock car fire suppression
"They really get a small sample of the many skills firefighters have to perform," Jukes noted, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the training experience.
Expanding Reach and Impact
The program has demonstrated significant growth since its inception, with 14 participants in the inaugural 2024 camp and 27 attendees in last year's session. This year, organizers anticipate reaching full capacity with 32 participants, reflecting increasing awareness and interest in the initiative.
"Word of mouth has spread about the camp," Jukes observed, highlighting the program's growing reputation within Indigenous communities across Alberta. While based in Calgary, the camp attracts applicants from throughout the province, demonstrating its regional appeal and importance.
Cultural Exchange and Service Enhancement
Beyond technical training, the camp serves as a platform for meaningful cultural exchange and relationship building. "It's really about empowering Indigenous people to not only learn about the fire service, but really, to learn about themselves and learn about CFD as a whole," Jukes stated.
The program also provides valuable insights for the Calgary Fire Department. "On the flip side, it's a great way for CFD to connect and restore relationships with Indigenous communities and partners, but also an opportunity to learn from Indigenous people on ways we can better enhance our services and service delivery to make sure we are culturally aware of areas we might have gaps," Jukes explained.
Participants gain exposure to various aspects of firefighting beyond emergency response, including fire prevention initiatives and community safety programs. This comprehensive approach ensures that attendees develop a well-rounded understanding of fire service careers while building practical skills that benefit both individuals and their communities.
