D’Iberville first responders bond with children during “Heroes United” camp

The City of D’Iberville is hosting a first responders’ camp this week. Over 100 campers are here at Ocean Adventures Marine Park on a field trip with firefighters and police officers for their “Heroes United” camp. The goal of this camp is, of course, to inform the youth, but also to make them feel safe.

Officer Becky Hasse explains why the departments take the children on daily field trips.

“The police officer is coming in and playing dodgeball. The police officer is coming in playing with dolphins, shaking hands with dolphins,” Hasse said. “The police officer is bowling with you, jumping with you. Same as the firefighters. When they all get together, they’re just big kids playing, and it builds that trust.”

When they’re not bonding with officers, the campers are learning what to expect from first responders during an emergency as well as how to render first aid, safety around fire and water, and more.

Luke Fletcher with the D’Iberville Fire Department said, “It definitely helps them to not be scared because it gives them confidence that if a problem does happen, ‘I can help. I know what’s going to happen.'”

Most importantly though, this camp gives first responders a chance to impact a child’s life and future – a responsibility they take seriously.

“This is the next generation. Some of these kids have an interest in becoming a public servant,” Fletcher said. “They want to serve on the fire department or police department, and we’re setting the example for them of what is expected as they grow up and as they potentially go to serve our community.”

Campers will enjoy their final day with firefighters and police officers with an awards ceremony and a small festival.