By Shavonne Potts
spotts@salisburypost.com
The Miller’s Ferry Volunteer Fire Department is hosting its first junior firefighters’ muster on Saturday at its Long Ferry Road station.
“We want them to experience life as a firefighter. It’s a chance to learn the meaning of teamwork and working with other agencies,” said Fire Capt. Josh Fox.
Fox, who is co-organizer of the weekend event, hopes the community will attend to help “support these young men.”
The muster is for firefighters and explorers ages 14-17.
The event starts at 8 a.m. with registration and ends at 3 p.m. Participants will break for lunch.
The event is a way to bring other fire agencies together, Fox said.
The department expects about eight to 10 teams. It has invited Rowan County fire departments including Granite Quarry, Franklin and East Spencer. Also expected to participate are Davidson County teams from Linwood and Reeds fire departments, and junior fire teams from Kannapolis and Iredell counties.
Participants will compete in five events: bucket brigade, tug o’ war, a turnout gear race, water ball and a junior combat challenge.
Organizers will sell hot dogs and hamburgers, with the proceeds going to support the Miller’s Ferry Junior Firefighter program.
The teams will compete for trophies in the following categories: first-, second- and third-place, as well as best overall. Teams will also have the chance at the Sportsmanship and the Headache awards.
Registration begins at 8 a.m. Organizers will explain the rules at 9 a.m. and the competition will kick off at 9:30 or 10 a.m.
For more information about the event, contact Miller’s Ferry Fire Department at 704-637-1286.