The Second Annual Kids Firefighter Camp, hosted by the Andersonville Volunteer Fire Department (AVFD) and supported by 16 other private and public entities, kicked off Monday, June 7 at the department’s Station #1 adjacent to Andersonville Elementary School.

Purpose of the camp is to acquaint youngsters ages 6-11 with firefighting and other emergency services. There will be first aid classes, K9 demonstrations, a medical helicopter visit, swift water rescue demonstrations and firefighter games, among other activities. During the week, each participant will also develop a Fire Escape Plan for their own home.

“It’s important that youngsters learn about emergency services and the knowledge, equipment and training required to provide those services,” said AVFD Chief Jeff Bagwell. “In fact, some of these 40 kids may end up choosing emergency services as a profession or avocation. It’s also important for them to begin learning some basic first aid, and, along with their parents, how to react properly if their own home catches on fire.”

The camp’s partners include Lowe’s, Andersonville Bus Lines, Alcoa Fire Department, City of Knoxville Fire Department, LIFESTAR, Big Ridge State Park, Anderson County Rescue Squad, and the Anderson County Sheriff’s Department. Other supporters include the Clinton WalMart, Zaxby’s, Domino’s, Papa John’s, Ridgeway Market and Food City in Clinton, Merita Bread in Knoxville, and Archer’s Food Center in Norris.