After a month of training in first aid, fire prevention and civic responsibility, 313 young firefighters received their certificates of completion of training this Friday, July 17, 2026 at the Garoua fire station.
The Garoua fire station of the 30th Fire Brigade was abuzz with activity on Friday, July 17, 2026. Parents, fire department officials, guests, and visitors gathered to attend the graduation ceremony for the first cohort of young firefighters. For a month, 313 young people were introduced to first aid techniques, risk prevention, civic responsibility, and the values of discipline that characterize the fire brigade.
To mark the end of their training, the trainees offered the public a series of practical demonstrations. The aim was to highlight the knowledge acquired during their training and to showcase their ability to respond to various emergency situations. Through these exercises, the young firefighters also demonstrated that they are now capable of becoming ambassadors for prevention and awareness in their respective communities.
The first demonstration focused on first aid techniques. The young people demonstrated the recovery position maneuver. This technique, particularly important when caring for an unconscious person who is breathing normally, helps keep the airway open while waiting for emergency services to arrive.
The demonstration then continued with a fire drill. The trainees were asked to demonstrate the principles of using a fire extinguisher to combat a small fire. Beyond simply handling this equipment, the exercise served as a reminder of the importance of a quick and appropriate response to a fire. Prevention thus played a significant role in the various presentations given to the public.
Another highlight of the ceremony was the airway obstruction drill. The young firefighters demonstrated the procedures to follow when someone is choking. This is a situation that can occur at any time and requires a rapid response.
These various demonstrations were interspersed with cultural and artistic performances. Dances and musical entertainment contributed to a festive atmosphere at the ceremony. It was a way for the young firefighters to celebrate the culmination of a month of training, but also to highlight the spirit of camaraderie developed during their studies.
Presided over by Battalion Commander Mohamadou Yaya, head of the 30th Fire Brigade, the ceremony also served as an opportunity to remind the recipients of their new responsibilities. « These young people are called upon to become ambassadors for the fire service in their families, schools, neighborhoods, and various communities, » explained the fire chief.
The ceremony continued with the presentation of awards to the top young firefighters at each level. These distinctions recognized the trainees’ efforts, discipline, and dedication throughout their training. A solemn moment of the day followed, the military parade, which allowed the young firefighters to demonstrate their discipline and teamwork. In formation, they marched past the authorities, their parents, and guests before receiving their certificates of completion. This document marks the culmination of a month of training and marks the beginning of a new chapter in their civic engagement.
The end of this first wave, however, marks the beginning of a new cycle. Starting this Monday, July 20, 2026, the Garoua fire station will welcome the second wave of young firefighters. These new trainees will, in turn, have to take up the same challenge: diligently follow the training, learn life-saving techniques, and become ambassadors for fire prevention within the community.
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« The main objective of this training is to popularize first aid techniques » firefighters
The content of the training for young firefighters is already focused on four areas. The first part is about first aid. We teach children first aid techniques. We teach them how to save lives. The second part focuses on fire. We learn about fire prevention and fighting. The third part is about order and military discipline. We learn basic military training for discipline. We learn directly about the profession of arms. In addition to that, we also teach civic responsibility. Civic responsibility encompasses behaviors, attitudes, and how to live in different environments—in schools, neighborhoods, and wherever they might find themselves. As you can see, you’ve seen the children perform. This demonstrates that the lessons have been learned. We believe these children are now our ambassadors in different neighborhoods. The main objective of this training is to popularize first aid techniques.Andto bring firefighters as close as possible to the population. This is what we call a nation-state. We still hope that parents will trust us and send their children to firefighters. The second wave begins on Monday. Register them so we can teach them all the different modules planned for this awareness campaign.
