CITIZENS FIRE ACADEMY
Columbia Fire & Rescue's Citizens Fire Academy is free a six-week program held on Monday evenings from 7:00pm-9:00pm and Saturday mornings from 10:00am-12:00pm that gives adults age 18 and up the opportunity to learn all about what it takes to be in the fire service. Under close supervision of CFR personnel, citizens will use the skills and knowledge they will have obtained in the classroom to participate in hands on department activities including, donning and doffing firefighter turnout gear, deploying hoses, placing ladders, and performing search and rescue operations. Participants will get to witness a mock life-saving vehicle extrication, learn how to properly use a fire extinguisher, perform CPR and gain an understanding of basic and advanced life support skills. Those who sign up will also get to participate in a ride-along with a fire company as a part of this program. During the ride along they will get the opportunity to observe first responders in action on emergency calls in real time! The Citizens Fire Academy is a great way to learn more about the day to day operations of your local fire department! Participants will receive t-shirts to wear during class while performing hands on activities. At the end of the six-week academy participants and their families will be invited to attend a graduation ceremony and family station tour.
***All applicants shall be subject to a background check***