Murfreesboro Fire & Rescue Department is now accepting applications for the 12th session of the Citizens Fire Academy (CFA).
The six week course will begin Tuesday, September 16, and will continue through Tuesday, October 28, skipping October 7 due to the scheduled fall break of area schools.
The CFA offers a small group of area residents the opportunity to view and participate in the activities and services provided by the MFRD. Academy participants will receive an insider’s view of MFRD operations. Students will have the opportunity to participate in activities such as: wearing turnout gear, climbing a 65’ aerial, using extrication equipment, victim search and rescue using GPS, and much more (all activities are optional). The academy will conclude with a graduation ceremony, where class members will receive a certificate of completion.
Students in last year’s class were asked for feedback. A few of the comments shared were:
“I enjoyed climbing the 65’ ladder. I also thought learning how to use GPS was interesting.”
“The information on how fires travel and how hot they become really had my interest.”
“The tower truck ride was my favorite event. Turnouts really do give a sense of the apparel weight and protection.”
MFRD Administrative Assistant Laurie Alsup has been overseeing the academy since its inception in 2000. “The CFA is a unique opportunity for citizens to experience what firefighters do on a daily basis and learn about the new technical rescue services the department provides. Students also become more familiar with fire safety and can share that information with family and friends.”
It is important to mention that the Citizens Fire Academy is in no way job related. Completing the academy has no bearing on employment with the City or MFRD.
The cost of the class is $35.00. Class size is limited and the deadline for application submission is September 2. Applications can be obtained at Fire Administration located at 220 NW Broad Street or any MFRD fire station. They can also be obtained online at: www.murfreesborotn.gov/fireacademy. For more information, contact MFRD Administration at 615-893-1422.