Summer Camp Builds Up Jena's Next Generation of Firefighters

How do you search a room with a thermal imaging camera? What do you need to keep in mind during water rescues? And what matters most when a task can only be solved by working together? Forty-two children and teenagers aged 6 to 17 are currently exploring these and many other questions at the Jena Youth Fire Department’s summer camp.

From July 20 to 24, 2026, the participants are spending a variety-filled summer break on the grounds of the Jena University Sports Club. The program combines hands-on insights into the work of the fire department with sports activities, shared experiences, and plenty of teamwork.

“The youth fire department gives young people an early opportunity to take on responsibility and familiarize themselves with the tasks of the fire department. The summer camp combines practical exercises with teamwork and demonstrates just how versatile the fire department is today. In the process, the children and teens gain experiences that help them grow personally while also sparking an interest in volunteer work. For our Jena Fire Department, strong youth development is of central importance. It lays the foundation for continuing to attract enough men and women to the volunteer and professional fire departments in the future. This makes it all the more important that the young people enjoy their time here and are guided by experienced colleagues. “My heartfelt thanks go to City Youth Fire Department Director Robin Altmann-Krause, his team of supervisors and instructors, and the many firefighters from the volunteer fire departments who make this camp possible through their great dedication,” says Mayor and Head of Public Safety Benjamin Koppe.

Firefighting training is a key focus of the camp. With support from the volunteer fire departments in the city, the children and teenagers learn about various areas of responsibility and have the opportunity to get hands-on experience. The program includes, among other things, first aid training, searching rooms using a thermal imaging camera, proper use of fire extinguishers, water rescue exercises, and technical rescue drills.

It’s not just about technical knowledge and skills. The exercises require attention, clear communication, and mutual support. Participants experience firsthand how important it is to be able to rely on one another in the fire department.

A partnership with the Jena University Sports Club provides opportunities for physical activity and athletic variety. Various water sports activities are also part of the program. A special communal highlight awaits the children and teens on Thursday evening: Everyone will gather around a campfire with bread on a stick at the Steinkreuz.

The summer camp is organized by City Youth Fire Department Supervisor Robin Altmann-Krause, his deputy Yvonne Beck, as well as the youth supervisors and numerous other volunteers from Jena’s fire departments. They guide the participants through the program, share their knowledge, and ensure everything runs safely.

The camp brings together young members from the city’s various youth fire departments. This fosters new connections and shared experiences. At the same time, it helps instill an understanding from a young age that the volunteer fire departments in Jena work closely together across the city’s various districts.

The summer camp is of great importance for the fire department’s long-term efforts to recruit the next generation. The children and teenagers learn about the wide range of tasks performed by the fire department and experience a community where people take on responsibility and stand up for one another. The camp thus combines summer vacation experiences and personal development with a passion for future involvement in a volunteer fire department or the professional fire department.

At the conclusion of the summer camp, on July 24, the participants will compete alongside other youth fire departments in a summer sports competition.

Gruppe von Erwachsenen und Kindern lächelt in die Kamera.

Teilnehmende Jugendliche und Kinder des Sommercamps mit Fachdienstleiter Nick Ludwig (rechts), Gina-Sophie Merkel (2. v. r.), Yvonne Beck (3. v. r.) und Robin Altmann-Krause (vorn kniend) sowie dem Ausbildungs- und Betreuungsteam.