Disabled kids boost life skills with fire service
DISABLED youngsters joined other teens from across Doncaster for a wet and wild firefighting course which could be completed even in their wheelchairs.
The LIFE course - Local Intervention, Fire Education - was specially adapted so young people with physical and learning disabilities could take part in the same way as able-bodied youngsters.
The aim was to provide a positive experience for kids aged 15 to 18 from mainstream as well as special schools in the Doncaster area.
Some 13 young people, with disabilities including autism, Asperger's, physical difficulties, learning disabilities and sensory impairments, attended Doncaster fire station to learn basic firefighting techniques.
They met firefighters, got to grips with a powerful hosereel, and even enjoyed a passing-out parade to the backdrop of a giant fountain of spray from a water jet, watched by proud family, friends, and councillors.
The course was run by firefighters who have already proved successful role models for previous course participants.
Crew manager Keith Watts said: "It is vitally important our youth engagement courses are inclusive of all youngsters, regardless of their differing needs and disabilities."
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Thursday 23 February 2012
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