WASHINGTON — This summer camp won’t include arts and crafts.
At “Camp Embers,” high school girls between the ages of 16 and 18 will get a chance to explore firefighting as a career.
The Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department will hold the weeklong session between July 30 and Aug. 3.
Captain Aaron White said the requirements include a commitment to attending every session during the week.
“Much like our recruits — we want people who are going to take it seriously,” he said.
The teens will get a chance to suit up in firefighting gear and take part in drills and simulations.
There will also be a fitness component.
“We have to be ready at any moment to respond to our emergencies,” White said. “We are dedicated to our community.”
White said women are underrepresented in the department and it’s hoped that the camp can generate interest among high school girls who want to explore their career options.
“We want to show these young ladies that this is a viable career — and it’s very rewarding,” he said.
The department has a recruiter who has been active in reaching out to high schools to foster interest among students, but White said it’s still the case that many people enter the fire service as the result of word of mouth. They know someone who became a firefighter or paramedic and found the career appealed to them as well.
Volunteering has also been a way that people move into firefighting.
“It’s a great way to get experience and know what you’re getting into before you fully commit,” White said.
You can find applications for “Camp Embers” on Prince George’s County’s website. The applications must be received by June 15.
