Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman today announced that an additional $100,000 in funding would be allocated to the Nassau County Fire Service Academy to support its Juniors Program – Camp Fahrenheit. The camp is a nationally recognized program that helps prepare aspiring firefighters under the age of 18 for future careers in the fire service.

“We have the best firefighters in America. They are the reason why we are the safest county in America. Our volunteer firefighters do an amazing job, and we’re so happy that we have our Junior firefighters here,” said Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman.

Camp Fahrenheit is marking its 10th anniversary this year. The program brings an unprecedented level of intensity and realism to training simulations, with participation from 31 departments and cadets from across the world. The camp includes live evolutions and drills modeled after what firefighters see on the job. Simulations include car fires, propane tank incidents, mass casualty incident training scenarios, forcible entry, search and rescue operations, and other emergency procedures.

“What better way to train our young future firefighters than to put them into the scenarios of our regular probation classes,” said Camp Fahrenheit Director Jerry Presta. “That’s what this is all about – getting them trained safely, getting them the highest education that they can get from the best academy in the country, and then when they come of age, they come into the fire service and protect our communities.”

The Blakeman administration has prioritized aid for firefighters and emergency responders over the last several years. The Vocational Education and Extension Board (VEEB), which provides training and education for firefighters and first responders, has received over $20 million in funding from Nassau County since County Executive Blakeman took office. 

“Camp Fahrenheit is one of a kind,” County Executive Blakeman stated. “What could be more rewarding than protecting your community and your county. We want to thank our firefighters, and we want to commend our junior firefighters for stepping up to the plate. And we will make them the best firefighters in America.”

CREDIT: Nassau County Press Release