The second Granby First Responders Camp was held Aug. 12–14, offering local youths an immersive and educational experience with the town’s dedicated emergency services personnel. The three-day camp, designed to introduce participants to the vital roles of first responders, was a resounding success, providing hands-on activities, simulations and demonstrations.
The Granby Police Department, the Lost Acres Fire Department and the Granby Ambulance Association spent endless hours over the past eight months planning the camp to make it bigger and better than the year before—and that is just what it was!
The camp kicked off with Police Day, where participants were introduced to various aspects of law enforcement featuring interactive scenarios and investigations, giving the campers a taste of real-life policing challenges. A DUI simulation offered insights into the dangers of impaired driving, while a K-9 demonstration from Officers Yabrosky and Loucks of the Torrington Police Department highlighted the important role of police dogs in law enforcement. The day also included the Save a Life Tour, an impactful program designed to educate youth on safe driving practices.
On the second day, attention shifted to Emergency Medical Services (EMS) with the Granby Ambulance Association. Campers engaged in CPR training, medical response drills, and scenarios that simulated real-life medical emergencies. Participants learned the critical importance of quick thinking and calm decision-making in emergency situations, skills that are essential for EMS personnel.
The final day was dedicated to the Lost Acres Fire Department. Campers participated in fire training exercises and navigated obstacle courses designed to mimic real fire rescue scenarios. They also learned about vehicle entry techniques used in rescue operations and witnessed the awe-inspiring landing of a Life Star helicopter, which underscored the importance of air medical services in emergency situations.
The camp concluded with a fun-filled pizza party for all participants. A highlight of the day was the dunk tank, where campers had the opportunity to dunk Chief Scott Sansom of the Granby Police Department, bringing a light-hearted end to an intensive and educational camp.
Sansom expressed his gratitude to all who participated, stating, “This camp is a fantastic opportunity for our youth to see firsthand the dedication and hard work that goes into being a first responder. We hope this experience not only educates but also inspires the next generation of community leaders.”
The Granby First Responders Camp continues to be a valuable program in fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the critical roles that police, EMS, and fire departments play in our community. Plans are already underway for next year’s camp, which promises to be even bigger and better.