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ROTTERDAM
Carman OKs firefighters ages 16, 17
BY JUSTIN MASON Gazette Reporter

Fighting fires with the Carman Volunteer Fire Department used to be something reserved for adults. For years, the minimum age to join the company was 18. But with Carman in search of more volunteers, the commissioners of Rotterdam Fire District 3 have relaxed the age requirement, allowing those between the ages of 16 and 17 to volunteer.
    Fire Chief David Galka said the junior members will serve support roles during fi refighting, such as connecting to hydrants or hoisting ladders, instead of going inside a burning building.
    Teens must live within the Carman district to apply, and must receive permission from a parent or guardian. Young fi refighters will be required to perform academically and parents will be asked to keep the department abreast of any volunteer who has a drop in grades.
    “We’re trying to build the membership,” he said this week. “Hopefully by bringing in 16- and 17-yearolds, it will build interest.” ...............>>>>.................>>>>................http://www.dailygazette.net/De.....r01004&AppName=1

Growing up, the town I lived in had this same program.  You took the same training as the adults and could do everything except enter a working structure fire, and drive any of the trucks.  Once a structure fire was extinguished, you were allowed to enter the building for instruction with the Chief or one of his assistants.