On 23–25 August 2024, the first County Camp for Youth Fire Brigades of Zgorzelec County was held on the grounds adjacent to the Volunteer Fire Service station in Stary Węgliniec. Firefighter Roman Wiciak of the Stary Węgliniec Volunteer Fire Service said: – The event was organized on the initiative of the Starost of Zgorzelec, Mr Artur Bieliński, with the support of the Mayor of the Węgliniec Municipality and Town, Mr Mariusz Wieczorek, and the County Headquarters of the State Fire Service in Zgorzelec.
Firefighter:
More than 80 young firefighters took part in the camp, which aimed to help the young people integrate and provide training in fire-prevention measures. Participants were trained in safe behavior around bodies of water and in first-aid principles. The camp program was intensive and varied. The young people took part in logistical activities, such as setting up the camp, as well as pre-hospital first-aid training led by paramedic and instructor Mr Andrzej Mańkowski, a longtime friend of the Stary Węgliniec Volunteer Fire Service.
He added: – One of the key points of the program was a simulated emergency evacuation, during which the young firefighters had to rescue property, animals and people—represented by training dummies, mannequins and stuffed toys—in conditions resembling real-life hazards. Traditional firefighting drill, as well as outdoor, skill-based and integration games and activities, were also included. The camp ended on a joyful note with a youth “camp wedding,” which will certainly remain in the participants’ memories for a long time.
During the camp, the young people faced not only difficult tasks but also extreme weather conditions. The heat and challenging terrain were a real test of their skills and determination. Nevertheless, the participants passed with flying colors—at the end, each team presented its own anthem, which became a symbolic culmination of their shared effort and commitment.
Firefighter Roman Wiciak:
The event organizers extend their heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of this exceptional meeting. Special thanks go to the officers of the County Headquarters of the State Fire Service in Zgorzelec, the supervisors of the participating units and the members of the Stary Węgliniec Volunteer Fire Service—for their excellent organization and logistical support. Thanks to their determination, professionalism and commitment, it was possible to carry out this ambitious undertaking.
He concluded: – The integration meeting of the Youth Fire Brigades in Stary Węgliniec will certainly go down in the history of the local firefighting community. However, the greatest reward for the organizers remains the smiles of the children, who enthusiastically took part in every element of the program.