Camp FFIT (Female Firefighters in Training)

Please note the application portal for the 2022 Camp FFIT program is now closed. Thank you to all those who submitted an application. The City will provide information related to the 2023 Camp FFIT program in early 2023.

Camp FFIT (Female Firefighters in Training) is a week-long program that aims to show young women that firefighting is a viable career option. From a pool of applicants, 20 participants are selected to receive hands-on training they’d face as firefighters. The purpose of Camp FFIT is to encourage more women to consider a future career in one of the many branches of fire service.

Throughout the week, young women learn about performing auto extrication, ladder operations, extinguisher training, search and rescue, fire scenarios and countless other skills that firefighters perform throughout their careerThe training is valuable, yet extremely intense and physically demanding.

Participants will have an opportunity to speak to women and men who work at the London Fire Department to learn about firefighting as well as other fire service careers, including communications, investigations, fire prevention and public education. 


Camp FFIT 2022

This year's program will take place at the London Fire Department Training Complex, located behind Fire Station 9, located at 746 Wellington Road from July 18 to 22 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Training activities

All activities are led and supervised by qualified firefighters. Activities participants will take part in include:

  • Fire prevention activities which include public education, inspections, and fire investigations
  • Portable fire extinguishers
  • Medical scenarios
  • Ground ladder set up and climb
  • Auto extrication
  • Full use of turnout gear and SCBA search and rescue techniques with a blacked out face piece
  • Operating and controlling a hoseline
  • Familiarization of ropes and knots
  • Personal fitness training
  • Communications (fire dispatch)
Medical and fitness consideration

The physical demands of a firefighter are characterized by strength, endurance, coordination agility and dexterity. Participants of Camp FFIT will experience the physical stresses of a firefighter, although to a much lesser degree. All activities take place in a supervised and controlled environment and will be following all COVID-19 protocols and guidelines. Tasks are broken down into manageable segments to avoid overloading the body. All scenarios are done in a controlled training atmosphere. A camper may stop, if at any time they do not feel comfortable, and instructors will give additional direction and support. Instructors will stop activities if at any time there appears to be any risk of injury or danger.

The following is a list of factors that will increase the difficulty of the physical demands that are required during tasks:

  • Turn out gear and SCBA equipment restricts movement, adds weight to the individual and requires an increased respiratory effort while wearing the SCBA
  • Equipment used is often heavy and is frequently used in awkward positions
  • Environmental conditions, such as sun, humidity, or rain can add difficulty to tasks, which can cause fluctuations in body temperature
  • Darkness and/or smoke in a fire scenario decrease visibility, increasing the difficulty of the task
Qualifications

To qualify applicants must:

  • Be 15 to 19 years of age
  • Be in good physical condition
  • Have a positive attitude and a genuine interest in a career in fire services
  • Complete application including essay portion
  • Agree to follow all rules and regulations
  • Participate in all activities and classes
  • Possess a valid OHIP or Provincial health insurance card
  • Bring your own CSA approved safety boots (with green triangle logo) to participate in fireground activities
  • Be able to wear all personal protective equipment provided by Camp FFIT
Financial support

All successful applicants will be sent a formal registration package with additional forms and a payment request in the amount of $175. This payment will cover all activities, a Camp FFIT t-shirt and some other supplies for the program. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify through the Play Your Way fund. Payment details will be included in the formal registration package, if accepted into the program. Please visit our programs, courses and registration page for financial assistance details. 

Last modified:Wednesday, June 08, 2022