Local students got a crash course in fire rescue and firefighting Tuesday as part of the Hendricks CareerTek summer academy series, hosted by the City of Beloit Fire Department at Fire Station One.
Students were able to dive into what it takes to save lives for fire operations, from firefighting tactics used by departments across the country to getting hands-on experience with fire prevention and fire control techniques. All geared up and ready to work, students took turns using basic fire rescue equipment and even used a fire hose to extinguish a 'fire.'
Other activities included practicing forcible entry into structures, firefighter turnout gear speed tests and ladder demonstrations.
Beloit Turner High School senior Katherine Schildgen said she plans to join the Blackhawk Technical College fire technician program ahead of joining a fire department full-time.