Kivijalka25 camp inspires young people to get involved in rescue services

At the Kivijalka25 camp, young people will practise, among other things, first aid extinguishing, first aid and how to deal with accidents.

The traditional Kivijalka25 summer camp for junior firefighters, organised by the Helsinki and Uusimaa rescue associations, will bring nearly 600 children and young people to Palotarus in Padasjoki on 13–19 July to learn important safety skills, spend time together and explore practical rescue operations. We visited the camp to meet the young participants and find out more about camp activities.

This year, the camp was organised by the Uudenmaan Pelastusliitto rescue association, and the participants came from the contract fire brigades in the area. Contract fire brigades also play an important role in the practical implementation of the camp. Contract fire brigades train young people, provide an opportunity for meaningful recreation and play a significant role in regional preparedness and resistance to crises. Contract fire brigades are a crucial part of rescue services and a partner of the rescue department.

"Here you can see how the fire brigade hobby teaches young people responsibility and cooperation skills and instils in them the will to help," said Head of Risk Management and Deputy Rescue Commander Pekka Itkonen from the Rescue Department during his visit.

"The camp is not only a fun experience, but also an important step towards safety-conscious adulthood. The campers will grow up to be the contract fire brigade and volunteer firefighters of the future."

At the Kivijalka25 camp, young people will practise, among other things, first aid extinguishing, first aid and how to deal with accidents. The youngest campers under the age of 10 learn safety skills through play, while the youth take courses from the training system for junior firefighters. The programme also includes play and games, swimming and an evening programme. The activities strengthen team spirit and encourage participants to try new things.

For many young people, the camp is the highlight of the summer and junior firefighter activities are an important part of everyday life. The hobby fosters new friendships, offers experiences of achievement and can also open a path towards a career in the rescue sector.

"It's wonderful to see how committed and motivated the young people are, and how much the rescue hobby means to them," Itkonen says.

The Kivijalka25 camp continues until the end of the week, and the volunteers involved are doing a great job of creating an educational and unforgettable camp experience for hundreds of children and young people.