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Teenagers from the Southern Gulf Islands and South Vancouver Island spent their spring break challenging themselves, physically and mentally through an intense week of hands on fire and rescue training. The boot camp took place at the Pender Island Fire Rescue hall #1 on Pender Island, B.C. The young cadets overcame challenging and stressful situations that firefighters and first responders across the country experience everyday. They came out of the boot camp with a better understanding of what it means to be a future hero, an inspiration to those following in their footsteps. Hundreds of volunteer hours were contributed by more than 40 firefighters and support crews from Pender and Salt Spring Fire Rescue to provide this unique experience of a lifetime.

Photos by Chad Hipolito for The Globe and Mail

Heat rises as fire cadets test a water pattern.

A fire cadet lets go from the top of a three-story building.

Team Alpha cadet, Molly Andrews, receives assistance in putting on her tank.

A fire cadet drags a 185lbs Rescue Mort as fast as he can while being timed.

Team Alpha cadet, William Beniac, catches his breath following the firefighter team challenge.

South Island Police Dog service member RCMP Cpl. Mitch Fiddick, demonstrates criminal apprehension with seven-year old German Shepherd police dog, Tork.

Pender Island Fire Fighter, Morgan Dudley, extinguishes a burning pan of diesel fuel.

Team Bravo cadet, Teresa Krottner, wipes away the sweat following a structure fire scenario.

Family members look on as fire cadets learn how to use the Jaws of Life.

Fire cadets work as a team to contain and extinguish a vehicle fire.