Students learn about Fire District careers at Junior Cadet Academy

Orland Fire Protection District, IL – Young teenagers between the ages of 13 and 18 were given an opportunity to learn about what it takes to become a firefighter during a day-long summer camp program hosted by the Orland Fire Protection District on Tuesday (June 16, 2026).

The Junior Cadet Academy is held every year in the summer in conjunction with another Fire and Life Safety program for younger children under the age of 13 hosted by the OFPD.

An interactive, hands-on program, the Junior Cadet Academy is designed to introduce young people to emergency services and teach valuable life skills for everyday situations and give them an opportunity to understand what it is like to be a professional firefighter and paramedic.

“The academy featured a variety of educational and practical training sessions led by fire service professionals and community partners,” said Betsy Dine, the OFPD Community Risk Reduction Educator.

Junior Cadet campers with OFPD Staff and representatives of the days' first training program from the Cook County Canine Units. — Junior Cadet campers with OFPD Staff and representatives of the days’ first training program from the Cook County Canine Units.

“Canine Search and Rescue Operations from Cook County Sheriff’s Police Team provided insight into how specially trained K-9’s assist in locating missing persons and support public safety efforts. It also includes firefighter orientation, learning about protective gear, and learning about the training firefighters receive.”

“Dine explained participants learn the importance of personal protective equipment, fireground safety, and how firefighters safely operate in hazardous environments.

“They experience search and rescue techniques through hands-on exercises in a special training trailer, helping the students to develop problem-solving techniques, engage in teamwork, and learn communication skills,” Dine said.

Junior Cadets also learn about many OFPD lifesaving programs including, “Stop the Bleed” and CPR, and they learn how to provide critical life-saving skills that can help them respond confidently during medical emergencies before professional help arrives.

The program also included demonstrations of “Vehicle Extrication Operations,” one of the camp’s most exciting hands-on activities which allows Junior Cadets to watch and assist firefighters as they used hydraulic rescue tools, including the “Jaws of Life” and spreaders, to dismantle portions of a vehicle.

“They learned how to remove doors, push apart crushed metal, and create safe pathways to reach and rescue trapped victims. The activity provided a realistic look at the technical skills, teamwork, and precision required during emergency rescue operations,” Dine said.

The program also addresses fire hose operations, including pulling, rolling, and operating how lines while learning how firefighters deliver water during emergency incidents, and strategies for live fire suppression activities, allowing participants to safely apply water to a controlled vehicle fire under firefighter supervision.

“This academy helped students build confidence, responsibility, and an appreciation for the dedication required to serve their community,” Dine said.

The Junior Cadets completed the camp program with a greater understanding of public safety careers and the knowledge that they can make a difference during emergencies, Dine said.

For more information on future Junior Cadet Camp programs, visit the OFPD website at www.OrlandFire.org.

— Press Release

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