By Julie Gerke
Photos by Julie Gerke and the Jacksonville Fire Department.
Members of Jacksonville Police Department Cadet Post 117 recently learned the basics of rappelling thanks to an evening of instruction from Jacksonville Fire Department firefighters.
The six cadets (the post’s inaugural class) wore helmets, gloves and body harnesses connected to a safety rope. Another rope allowed the cadets to lower themselves at their own pace; a ratchet kept the rope from sliding too fast. The training scenario was held at the JFD training area off West Oak Street.
The year-round cadet program provides an in-depth look at policing, and provides an opportunity for the cadets to help with various community events.
