[06 February 2008]

LIFE course

The Local Intervention Fire Education (LIFE) project was introduced into East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service in 2005 to reduce antisocial behaviour and improve community safety across East Sussex and the City of Brighton and Hove.

The course is designed specifically to challenge young people aged between 13 and 19 years old, who may have offended, be at risk of offending, or have behaviour or confidence issues.

The five-day course includes intense training from East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service firefighters and incorporates ladder climbing and hose reeling exercises as well as specialist breathing apparatus training. Students also take part in team building activities, learn basic first aid and examine the consequences of antisocial behaviour within their community.

The latest LIFE course took place on 28th January 2008 and ran for the duration of one week at Bexhill Fire Station. Thirteen students from Hastings College, aged between 15 and 18 years old, took part in the course.

All the students successfully completed the LIFE course and took part in a Pass Out Parade on Friday 1st February where they demonstrated the wide range of skills they had learnt during the week in front of their parents, carers and representatives from East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service. Deputy Chief Fire Officer Chris Large then presented the students with a certificate and praised them for their achievement and determination.

The LIFE project continues to grow and be a success and this is the sixteenth course to date. The next LIFE course is due to take place on 11th February at Bexhill fire station.

If you would like further information on the LIFE course please call Victoria Thomas, Youth Interventions Manager on 07789 170835.