Lehigh Acres Fire Control and Rescue District Launches Youth-Oriented Cadet Program

The Lehigh Acres Fire Control and Rescue District is launching a Cadet Program this March to teach participants about their profession and provide access to mentors and volunteer opportunities. The youth-oriented program will prepare cadets for a professional career in firefighting and emergency medical services through classroom and hands-on learning.

The program is also open to youth who may not be interested in firefighting as a career. Cadets will build many different skill sets throughout their tenure in the program, building a solid foundation for a successful future in any field. Pride, commitment, courage, leadership, teamwork, integrity, self-discipline are applicable and useful life skills to develop for many professions.

“Our Fire Cadet Program will offer youth and young adults an opportunity to experience life as a firefighter and learn about our team,” stated Chief DiLallo. “The program has many benefits, but most importantly gives cadets a feeling for what it’s like to be a part of something bigger than themselves.  Ideally, some cadets will choose to remain here and serve their community.”

Each Cadet will learn mental and physical wellness, a sense of self-responsibility, personal growth, leadership, discipline, teamwork, and fire prevention skills.

The program is open to participants between the ages of 14 and 20 years old. A mandatory orientation meeting is scheduled for March 4, 2020, and the program will meet weekly year-round. The initial program is limited to a class of 15 cadets. Application information is available online at www.lehighfd.com.