PUPILS at Dumbarton Academy and our Lady and St Patrick's High School were put through their paces when they took part in the latest instalment of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service's Fire Reach course.

The purpose of the scheme is to provide training and development opportunities to young people in Scotland, principally through Fire Service related activities.

And S3 to S6 pupils got the chance to be real firefighters for the day, tackling some of the duties that the SFR carry out every day.

Local Senior Officer Jim Devaney said: "The students have been really enthusiastic and thrown themselves into learning about fire safety in the home and also road safety as they may soon be the young drivers on our roads.

"They are also given instruction in First Aid and how they can assist in keeping their homes safe.

"Our partners at Police Scotland are also involved and enhance the week with safety information.

"This course is a fantastic example of the Community Planning Partnership working together to keep young people safe across West Dunbartonshire."

The course ran for five days at Dumbarton Fire Station and was supported by partner agencies in West Dunbartonshire Council and Police Scotland.

Since January 2008 staff involved in the project have completed 113 Fire Reach courses involving more than 1000 students.

Marie McMartin from WDCs Working 4U learning, said: "This was a great opportunity for the students to experience the great service that Scottish Fire and Rescue provide in a disciplined work environment.

"Furthermore, the course works towards their Bronze level 4 Youth Achievement award certificate."

Louise Spence, from Dumbarton Academy, added: "I would like to thank the Firefighters who provide this experience.

"Their help and understanding has greatly enhanced the students' enjoyment and learning.

"Attending the course has improved the pupils' communication skills and also, in many cases, timekeeping and attendance."