For Campers

Welcome to the International Youth Firefighters’ Camp in Masku, July 11-17, 2026. The most anticipated event of the year brings together Finnish and international children and youths who are excited about volunteer firefighting. We hope to see you there, too!

Here are 5 reasons to get involved

  1. Approximately 2,000 persons aged 7 to 17 from all over Finland and the world are coming to the Häly 2026 camp.
  2. It will be a week-long experience to remember, offering unforgettable memories.
  3. You will get to train with people of your age group, to develop your skills, and to practice for the real thing.
  4. You will get to know new youth firefighters and trainers as well as other firefighters from across departments and regions. Häly 2026 brings together different generations, competences, and a shared passion for volunteer firefighting.
  5. You can make memories with friends both old and new. The thoughtfully planned programme, relaxed free-time activities, and camping in the middle of beautiful Finnish summer will not be easily forgotten.

What is youth firefighting all about?

Pedagogic goals:
Youth firefighting supports your development into an independent, self-confident, and cooperative adult.

Training goals:
The purpose of the activity is to help you develop the readiness required for acting correctly and safely in various life situations. Skills safeguarding human life are emphasised.

Safety communication goals:
Youth firefighting activities bring to life and nurture an interest in safety. It engenders a positive attitude towards safety and related matters in youth firefighters.

Programme

See what happens at camp!

HÄLY 2026 is more than just a camp! It is an entire village raised in Masku – a little tent town full of team spirit, the joy of learning, and firefighting excitement.

The camp offers plenty of interesting activities every day. Family members, friends, and anyone interested can also come visit the camp on Tuesday, 14.7.2026. More detailed programme plans are to be released closer to the camp start – so stay tuned!

Training

There are also some interesting changes! The youth firefighter training system reform project financed by the Finnish Fire Protection Fund and executed by the Finnish National Rescue Association will be made concrete at camp with the adoption of the updated training system. The youth firefighters’ training path age groups at camp are 7 to 9-year-olds, 10 to 12-year-olds, 13 to 15-year-olds, and 15 to 18-year-olds. Read more about the reformed training path!

Registration

Reserve your place at the unforgettable camp!

It’s great that you would like to come enjoy volunteer firefighting activities with old and new friends and Häly the Cat!

Register for the international HÄLY 2026 camp:
haka.spek.fi

  • Registration opens 3.11.2025
  • Search for the event “HÄLY 2026, International Youth Firefighters’ Camp”
  • If you need assistance, send an email to heli.koponen@haly2026.fi

Registration fees

The earlier you register, the cheaper it is!

  • €190 per person when registering by 28.2.2026
  • €240 per person when registering between 1.3.2026 and 31.5.2026
  • €290 per person when registering on or after 1.6.2026

The price includes training, other events, services, and food on all camp days. Please note that the registration is binding. It can be cancelled free of charge by presenting a medical certificate in case of illness or an employment certificate in case of e.g. taking up a summer job. If you are unable to attend for any other reason, you can also donate your ticket to another youth firefighter.

Practical information and safety

Read about getting ready and what to bring with you!

HÄLY 2026 is a joyful and educational adventure for youth firefighters aged 7 to 17. It offers training arranged by age group, trips, and relaxed leisure activities. At night, we sleep in our private tents. Get started by downloading the checklist for responsible camping!

How to get ready for camp

You will need things like the following:

  • A tent with associated equipment, a sleeping bag, and a sleeping pad
  • Warm and weather-appropriate clothes and shoes
  • Clothes for changing
  • Personal hygiene supplies, a towel, and swimwear
  • Sunscreen and mosquito spray (just to be sure)
  • Phone and charger
  • Any medications you need and their instructions for use
  • A refill water bottle
  • Snacks you like (if you want something extra)
  • Some pocket money for shopping
  • Plenty of camping attitude and team spirit

We recommend you put your name on at least the biggest and most important items. Don’t forget to practice setting up your tent at home, although we will help you at camp too if needed!

Safety is key

Safety takes centre stage at the international HÄLY 2026 camp. There are about a thousand safe and dependable adults looking after the children and youths. They will make sure the campers are well and that the camp goes well. The camp is managed with skills and experiences gained from previous camps. If you have any questions about safety, do get in touch!

Camp principles

Cooperation and sharing responsibility
We work together and support each other across sector boundaries. We accept responsibility and share information and experiences. We prepare for meetings and do what we promise.

Openness and communication
We communicate openly and encourage asking questions. We listen to each other and are genuinely present. We are honest and brave to address grievances properly.

Respect and safety
We consider everyone’s backgrounds and special needs. We create an environment that is safe and free of harassment. We remember good manners and provide good feedback.

Flexibility and wellness
We are flexible and understanding. We forgive ourselves and each other. We thank, praise, and encourage each other.

Sustainable development and youth inclusion
We consider environmental impacts in our decision-making. We listen to young persons and act in their best interest.

For guardians

See information for parents!

It’s great that your child is one irreplaceable youth firefighter. Your child is warmly welcome to attend the international HÄLY 2026 camp to learn skills that will be useful for life.

The expertly managed HÄLY 2026 camp offers memorable experiences to youth firefighters. You are also invited to experience the international atmosphere at camp on the visit day on Tuesday, July 14, 2026. Please also follow Häly on social media to keep up to date on camp news and the latest happenings!

HÄLY 2026 on social media:
Facebook
Instagram

If there are any questions before or during camp, do get in touch!

HÄLY the Cat wants you to know something!
Youth firefighting activity in a nutshell

  • Recreational activity for young persons aged 7 to 17
  • Provides children and youths with safety skills and other important life skills
  • Secures the continuity of firefighting services
  • There are more than 9,000 youth firefighters in Finland
  • 3,000 young persons from Finland and abroad are coming to the Häly 2026 camp. About 1,000 volunteers are involved.

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