Many Ukiah High School Wildcats dream of becoming firefighters, responding to fires and emergencies to help their community. Did you know you can start living that dream while still in high school? The Ukiah Valley Fire Authority offers a Fire Cadet Program for students.
Why Join the Cadet Program?
We interviewed 12th grader Tony McCormick, a cadet with the UVFA, to learn more. Tony said he joined the program to gain experience for his future career as a firefighter. One of his favorite memories was riding on Truck 6852 during the Memorial Day Parade in Potter Valley, sharing jokes and having a great time.
Tony also shared the challenges he faced as a cadet. The toughest moment for him was the physical agility test, which he described as exhausting and difficult to pass. Despite the challenges, Tony has been part of the program for a year and a half and continues to enjoy the experience.
What Do Fire Cadets Do?
As a cadet, you’ll get hands-on training and eventually ride along with firefighters to respond to real emergencies like fires, traffic collisions, and medical calls. You’ll also learn valuable skills such as:
- CPR and first aid
- Using tools like chainsaws, circular saws, and Sawzalls
- Forcing doors open and venting roofs
- Cutting handlines and laying hoses for wildland firefighting
- Tying knots, working with ladders, and improving communication skills
- Fighting structure, wildland, and vehicle fires
When Do Cadets Meet?
Cadet meetings are held every other Tuesday from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Central Fire Station (Station 2), located next to South Valley High School.
How to Join the Program
If you’re interested in becoming a cadet, simply show up to one of the training sessions. The program is open to students aged 14 to 17. Once you turn 18, you can apply to become a firefighter with the UVFA.
This is a great opportunity for students passionate about firefighting to get a head start on their careers while still in high school. Will you be the next Wildcat to join the team?
[Photograph courtesy of Peter Armstrong]
Zach Stewart
Zach Stewart is a sophomore at Ukiah High, Zach has lived in Ukiah his entire life. Zach is a fire cadet for UVFA, Zach signed up for journalism because he enjoys learning about fires across California and wanted to start writing about them. Zach likes fishing and trap shooting, Zach wants to be a firefighter for Cal Fire once he graduates.