STOMP sponsors Xtreme camp

Youth in grades 6-8 were “challenged” to learn some life lessons during Jack County STOMP’s Xtreme Challenge camp.

The five-day camp had just under 20 kids take part, opening with lessons and character and leadership taught by department heads from across the city and county. Tours of the hospital and emergency medical services building were also given by hospital officials and EMS Director Kelley Hudson.

Campers were also treated what an AirEvac helicopter can do during a tour and simulation. To close out Monday, a program on first aid was given by Director of Recreation Will Mangum in conjunction with the Jacksboro Fire Department.

Kids also learned how to do CPR properly in classes provided Tuesday and then took part in some team building exercises at Adventure Air in Hudson Oaks. Tours of both the Jacksboro Police and Fire Department were given Wednesday.

At the fire department, firefighters Zach Searcy and Jack Mathis showed the different apparatuses the department uses for different fires. The pair also showed the different stages of a fire and how they use technology to potentially save lives.

The campers enjoyed the use of a thermal imaging camera which shows heat and tells firefighters where the fire might be and also if anyone is inside a structure during a fire.

Police Chief Scott Haynes and his staff gave a tour of the department and their vehicles displaying the techniques and technology available to them to help solve crimes.

Jacksboro ISD coaching staff helped the kids learn how to avoid obstacles in life with a fun obstacles course and with a guest speaker Thursday morning. A tour of Fort Richardson State Park was also given.

Safety was the focus of Thursday with gun safety and water safety and rescue provided. The children got to practice their water safety tips at a pool party Friday afternoon following a tour of the Sheriff’s Department and DPS Headquarters. A closing ceremony and awards were given out Friday before lunch and a pool party to culminate the week.

Meals during the week were provided by Bible Baptist, The Light, First Baptist, Friends of the Fort and Southwest Baptist Churches. First Baptist and Bible Baptist also transported the campers to the different activities

The camp had a number of sponsors to make the week-long event come off without a hitch.