Use the lessons learnt, cadets told

Parents attending the Junior Fire Cadet closing ceremony on Friday were reminded that they are their children’s first and sometimes only role model.Acting chief fire officer Randolph Cox, addressing the ceremony at the Arch Hall Fire Station, said some parents failed to exercise the responsibility needed to produce “our finest citizens”.“They neglect to infuse key life-building constituents such as discipline, selflessness and self-control. They do not insist on the need for truthfulness, trust and moral integrity,” he told those gathered.Cox said instead some parents opted to present an image of immorality, disrespect and vengeance.He however told parents that it wasn’t too late, and that “now was as good a time as any for parents to take control, avoid criticism and show more consistency”.Cadets too were given a reminder. Cox told them they had a responsibility to be obedient, to be respectful and to communicate with their parents.“Children who follow these simple rules will quickly discover they possess the key to achieving great things,” he stated.He urged the cadets to make good use of the lessons learnt, strengthening their future.“Let these examples be constant in your daily activities, and let them serve you in your desire to achieve the most from life in a moral way,” the fire chief added.The main focus of the programme, which is in its tenth year, is to instil a sense of character and develop self-esteem and self-discipline in each cadet. Over the last five weeks, the cadets were taught several life-saving techniques, which they will hopefully pass on to those in the community.The event saw 25 graduating cadets displaying exciting foot drills, hose and hydrant techniques, fire extinguisher drills and fire blanket use. Presented were also a skit and dance.Most Improved Fire Cadet went to Dylan Browne, Best At Deportment and the Instructor’s Trophy to Akeem Trotman, Best At Theory to Danielle Gaskin, Most Disciplined Cadet to Sharifa Harewood, and Best Cadet to Miguel Hamilton. (CT)