Thurso pupils learn firefighting skills
Ten Thurso High School pupils have become the first "graduates" of a course which taught them basic firefighting skills.
Deputy Assistant Chief Fire Officer David Farries presented their certificates at the town’s fire station after they gave a demonstration of what they had learned.
The third-year pupils mastered hose-handling and knot-tying skills and learned to use breathing apparatus and water hydrants during the eight-week FireSkills course.
Their stint included picking up basic first aid and a trip to Wick John O’Groats Airport where they helped put out a fierce blaze on a training drill.
They also had an outing to visit Inverness fire station and an afternoon enjoying some "downtime" at the city’s karting arena.
Mr Farries, the north’s head of service delivery with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, said: “The things they do on the course will stand them in very good stead for the future.
“As well as learning practical skills, they have worked together as a team to overcome challenges and build up their confidence.”
Thurso firefighter Kara Simpson, who led the course, said: "Participation in the course has given the young people the opportunity to self-develop and divert them from involvement in anti-social activity.
“It has been great to see their confidence and communication skills grow over the eight weeks.
“The course has helped give them knowledge and awareness of their communities which will enhance their citizenship and employability skills.
“They got a lot out of the programme, and so did we.”
Ms Simpson said a number of the youngsters have expressed an interest in going on to join the fire service. It is intended to repeat the course next year.
She was one of seven firefighters in Thurso, Dornoch and Inverness involved in staging the course, which was sponsored by Tesco.
The participants were Alexander Crayton, Callum Shearer, Charley Sutherland, Declan Mackay, Ewan Durrand, James Coghill, Leon McPhee, James Manson, Rachel Durrand and Ryan Williamson.
