The camp began on August 18. “On the first day, we visited the largest mountain fortress in Europe,” says Damian Tomiak, head of the Youth Fire Brigade Team operating at the Volunteer Fire Department in Osiecznica. “The trip brought the group even closer together. Everyone helped one another while having a great time.”
Nineteen young people went to Srebrna Góra. Under the watchful eye of three supervisors, the future firefighters had the opportunity to visit the underground passages of the mountain fortress, adits and silver mines. “In one of the caves, we were allowed to cover part of the route with flashlights. Then they took them away and told us to continue in the dark. We came out tired, dirty and wet, but it was worth it,” Damian says with a smile.
There was no shortage of sporting excitement either. A shooting competition was held during the camp, and Angela Kuźnik won. The young people also completed a hand-to-hand combat course. In addition, every member of the Youth Fire Brigade Team rode a zip line from a height of 30 meters. “Nobody chickened out, although the view was breathtaking,” says the team leader. “Even the youngest did not hesitate for a moment.”
The future firefighters swam in the pool every day. “The lifeguard showed them how they could improve their swimming skills. To swim in deeper water, they had to complete two lengths of the pool,” Damian explains. “Once again, the youngest showed what they were capable of.”
There was also time for unusual games and activities, such as the bomb game and ‘Robin Hood’s mail.’ “Trips of this kind have a positive effect on young people and develop their skills,” the team leader concludes. “The young people showed that they can already do a lot, while also knowing how to have a wonderful time. I was especially positively surprised by the older members. They looked after the youngest members of the Youth Fire Brigade Team and took care of them. I hope that next year it will also be possible to organize a camp for this fantastic group.”
Damian Tomiak thanks everyone who contributed to organizing the trip: companies, local institutions, Jan Cołokidzi, Monika Kumosz, head of the Municipal Culture and Sports Center in Osiecznica, the supervisors who watched over the young people’s safety, and the municipal authorities.
(information ii)