Peterhead firefighters inspire next generation

Firefighters and members of the town’s community action team have hosted pupils from Peterhead Academy and have passed on knowledge and expertise around skills including leadership, CPR and combatting antisocial behaviour.

The educational initiative, which includes a number of partners, aims to help the teenagers grow in confidence and enhance their employability prospects.

SFRS Local Area Liaison Officer, Watch Commander (WC) Willie Tocher, hailed the commitment of the young participants.

He  said: “This is a fantastic programme to be involved with and rewards both the firefighters and the local kids who are taking part.

“The effort and enthusiasm they are putting in is a credit to Peterhead.

“We’re hoping we can make a positive impact on the students and promote confidence and resilience.

“It’s very important work and we’ll be delighted if we can help these young people grow and blossom.”

The student’s experience will end at Peterhead Station with a live demonstration – where the youngsters will showcase the skills they have learned in front of family, friends and teachers.

According to Station Commander Graeme Laird, Prevention and Protection for Aberdeenshire & Moray, the skills being passed on by firefighters and partners can help youths grow in confidence and develop practical and transferable skills.

He said: “Many of the skills we are passing on are skills and techniques we share with our own crews.

“It’s our hope that this course will help inspire the pupils to grow and enhance their prospects.

“As firefighters, this is among the most important work we carry out.”