there are two types of voluntary fire brigades: Voluntary fire brigades Half-ordinary fire brigades The half-ordinary fire brigades have some fire fighters with a contract; however, these firefighters are not professional fire fighters. The people in both voluntary and half-ordinary fire brigades may get paid for their work in actual emergency situations. This is often the case especially with voluntary (and half-ordinary) fire brigades operating in high risk areas. Training Voluntary fire brigades have an extensive training programme for new members. The training usually includes basic firemen skills (how to handle the personal gear, first aid, fire engine operation) and possibly fitness exercises. There are training courses, which teach for example: Initial training Basic firemen skills, which include Basic techniques for extinguishing fires First Aid including CPR, trauma patient care etc. Use of Self contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) Advanced skills Rescue skills for dealing with car accidents etc. Mitigation of damage in an oil-related accident Dealing with hazardous substances (such as chemicals) Unit leading Some of these courses are considered optional and others mandatory. To operate in a real emergency scene, one must have completed both initial training and a basic firemen skill course. The use of breathing apparatus is allowed for personal protection; use in confined spaces is only allowed after a course. Women's activities in voluntary fire brigades In addition to actively taking part in fire fighting operations within voluntary fire brigades, there are also women-specific activities in many fire brigades. They often cooperate with the youth workers in voluntary fire brigades, arrange catering services in major accident sites, provide mental help for the victims of accidents etc. The women's activities in voluntary fire brigades are often in their own department. There are over 350 women's departments in Finnish fire brigades. Youth in voluntary fire brigades The youth work in fire brigades dates back to the 1800s. It aims to increase the safety awareness of youth, train new members for fire brigades and provide the youth with a useful hobby. There are over 500 youth departments (in which there are over 10 000 young fire fighters) in Finnish fire brigades and most of them accept boys and girls, usually aged 8 to 16. The youth in the fire brigades have their own training system. These courses teach safety knowledge, fire fighting, first aid and other related skills. When the youth turn 16, they can start to participate in