Teens Receive Hands-On Experience in Emergency Services

High school graduates interested in a career in emergency services underwent a week of intensive hands-on training this month, part of the award-winning Redlands Emergency Services Academy. Each year, some two dozen local teens with an interest in a public safety career attend the annual Redlands Emergency Services Academy. The participants shared temporary quarters for one week on the campus of the University of Redlands, were exposed to hands-on training exercises in fire and police operations, and were introduced to state of the art simulators. This program stresses the importance of a well-rounded education, as well as the value of an extended education to each of the teens in attendance. High school graduates from the class of 2015 arrived at the University of Redlands at 9 a.m. Wednesday, July 15, for the 17th annual Redlands Emergency Services Academy (RESA). By 9:15 a.m. they were participating in formation and marching drills and by evening learning firearm safety and fire behavior from members of the Redlands Police and Fire departments. Over the following week students suited up in protective gear, armed themselves with paintball guns and participate in simulations as part of their Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) training; practice police techniques for weaponless defense; fire weapons on the range and learn about pursuit driving at the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Academy. Firefighters will teach firefighting and search and rescue techniques, rappelling, and auto extrication and triage throughout the week. The course also included instruction in public safety ethics and career pathways.