09/23/2026
Middleton Fire Department Welcomes Inaugural Junior Firefighter Program
The Middleton Fire Department is proud to welcome nine students from Middleton Regional High School (MRHS) as the inaugural participants in its Junior Firefighter Program—an exciting partnership designed to introduce local youth to the skills, teamwork, responsibility, and traditions of the fire service.
Eight of the nine students are pictured at the Middleton Fire Department in front of a display honouring the department’s Fire Chiefs, representing a history of leadership and service dating from 1890 to the present day. It is a fitting backdrop as a new generation begins its own journey in the fire service.
Over the next 38 weeks, students will take part in a structured, skills-based program combining classroom instruction with extensive hands-on practical experience. Training will be delivered by the Middleton Fire Department’s team of certified instructors and experienced assistant instructors, who will share both technical knowledge and lessons gained through years of service.
Students will be introduced to many of the foundational skills of firefighting, including personal protective equipment, hose handling, ladders, ropes and knots, fireground safety, communications, teamwork, emergency first aid, and other practical firefighter skills. Safety, accountability, discipline, and effective teamwork will remain at the centre of the program.
The program is about more than learning how to use firefighting equipment. It provides students with an opportunity to build confidence, leadership, problem-solving and communication skills, while developing an understanding of the importance of community service.
For the Middleton Fire Department, the program also represents an investment in the future of the volunteer fire service.
“Behind these students are the photographs of the Fire Chiefs who helped lead the Middleton Fire Department from 1890 to today. In front of those photographs stands the next generation. Over the next 38 weeks, our training team has the opportunity to pass along the skills, knowledge, traditions, and importance of service that have been built over more than a century.”
The Middleton Fire Department extends its appreciation to Middleton Regional High School, its staff, the participating students and their families, and the members of the department who are committing their time and experience to the program.
We look forward to following these nine students throughout the next 38 weeks as they learn, challenge themselves, work together, and discover what it means to be part of the fire service.
Middleton Fire Department
Serving our community since 1890
Photo caption: Nine Middleton Regional High School students participating in the Middleton Fire Department Junior Firefighter Program stand in front of the department’s historic display of Fire Chiefs, representing leadership and service from 1890 to the present day.
