SPECIAL TIME FOR CAMPERS Limerick Fire Company hosts camp for those with special needs

LIMERICK >> Fire makes no distinction between able-bodied people and those afflicted with disabilities.

Recognizing this, Limerick Fire Company has launched a new program that addresses the problems facing individuals diagnosed with autism, Down syndrome or anxietyprovoking condition. The program, a one-day camp for individuals with special needs was held earlier this month at the fire company station on Ridge Pike.

“We know the special needs community is ever growing,” said Gina Walters, chairperson of the event. “The fire company saw a need in the community for an event like this.”

Thirty-two campers attended the camp’s two three-hour sessions, one of which ran from 9 am. to noon, the second from 1 to 4 p.m.. During the sessions, campers moved among six stations, each devoted to a specific subject: the use of firefighting gear, Limerick FC’s rescue truck, handsonly CPR, using the 911 system, extinguishing a stove fire, extinguishing a car fire.

Walters pointed out that the session focusing on firefighters’ gear was particularly important because special needs people find that firefighters decked out in their familiar regalia — wearing masks that shield their faces and distort their voice similar to that of Darth Vader) — are scary and intimidating. During the camp session, firefighter Harry Anagnostopoulos demonstrated how the gear was worn and how it was used in an emergency situation.

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DORI ANN MILES — FOR DIGITAL FIRST MEDIA Limerick Fire Company held its first Firefighter Day Camp for individuals with special needs on Oct. 13. Campers got the chance to take a look at and learn how to use fire equipment and take a tour of the firehouse.

DORI ANN MILES — FOR DIGITAL FIRST MEDIA Thirty-two campers got a close-up look at fire trucks and equipment on Oct. 13 during a day-long firefighting camp for individuals with special needs.