As a lifetime public servant, South Haven Area Emergency Services Executive Director Brandon Hinz asks, rhetorically, “Who doesn’t want to be a firefighter…really?!” His exuberance is understandable because his team is on the cusp of an upcoming Cadet program designed to attract prospective first responders to the trade in hopes of recruiting them to the team. 
Hinz tells us that South Haven Area Emergency Services will launch their Cadet Program in the upcoming months to introduce participants to the firefighting and emergency medical service professions in a bid to attract future talent to the department, saying, “We are excited about this new opportunity to serve for the young people in our community.”
The program is intended to grow the number of people entering the emergency services professions. Cadet prospects will be welcomed in the coming months to experience the department first-hand by attending training, by responding to emergency calls as an observer, and to help out at events and fundraisers. Beginning in September, SHAES will sponsor Cadets for the state certifications required to become a firefighter.
Hinz says, “Becoming an active Cadet prior to starting classes will help orient students with the department, it’s equipment and personnel.”
Interested cadet prospects may live outside the South Haven Area Emergency Services service area which includes the City of South Haven, Casco Township, Geneva Township and South Haven Township.
Cadet prospects under the age of 18 must have a valid driver’s license and a signed work permit from their school, and minors will also need a signed parent/guardian permission slip allowing the department to conduct background check. Additionally, the number of cadets will be limited.
Interested persons are invited to contact Chief Hinz by email at: bhinz@shaes.org.
The photos accompanying this story on Moody on the Market are courtesy of South Haven Professional Photographer Tom Renner.
