Career Exploration Ignites Excitement at Madison

Students from Madison recently participated in a career exploration activity by visiting a local Norfolk fire station. Just a short walk from the school, Fire Station 7 on 42nd Street provided students with the opportunity to talk with firefighters and EMTs about the ins and outs of their jobs.

While at the firehouse, students were reminded of safety procedures during a house fire and practiced lifting and dragging individuals who may be disabled. Plus, they learned about CPR and how shocking the heart returns its rhythm. Before they left, students were shown how to check their smoke detectors when they went home.

Upon their return to Madison, the students were debriefed about their experience at the fire station. According to Lucy Zaleski, transitional specialist at Madison, the students said they learned that fire fighters have to study a great deal to keep up with new procedures and technology; thus, education is very important. They also expressed surprise when they learned that firefighting demands endurance rather than just brute strength, Zaleski said.”

Madison student Marqtavius White was impressed.

“It takes more than strength, you have got to have stamina,” White said. “Those guys are impressive.”