Edmonton fire cadet program offers valuable life lessons [Video]

Teens in the Edmonton area are getting a first-hand look at what it takes to be a firefighter.

The Edmonton Fire Cadets program is held weekly and takes students aged 14 to 18 through the steps to learn how to do the job.

The work experience program uses both classroom and hands-on learning and is offered through area school boards.

“I’ve learned the real demands of being a firefighter, how hard and fun and exciting it is,” fire cadet Haylee Ward, a student at Edmonton’s St. Joseph Catholic High School, told CTV News Edmonton.

Students can earn up to six credits over the course of the school year.

The application deadline to apply for next year’s cadet program is the end of April and can be competitive.

“It is pretty physically tough, but if you have the determination and the will to do it, you can do it,” the 17-year-old …