Crime & Safety

Citizen Fire Academy Now Accepting Applications

Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services to host 16th citizen fire academy in September.

Want to learn what it is like to be a firefighter?

Civic minded citizens will have a chance to do just that during the 16th Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services citizen fire academy.

Participants will have the opportunity to learn about fire and EMS operations, fire prevention, incident management systems, specialty team operations and community risk reduction.

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“During the class, participants learn first-hand what its like to be a firefighter/EMT, paramedic, on-scene incident commander, emergency dispatcher, and various administrative functions,” said Gwinnett Fire and Emergency Services public information officer Capt. Tommy Rutledge in a released statement.  “The class provides updated information about the many facets of the organization and includes hands-on practical exercises.”

Practical exercises include the opportunity to respond to actual emergency calls with firefighters during a scheduled ride-a-long opportunity.

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The next session of the academy begins Sept. 1 and ends Nov. 17. Classes are held on Thursday nights from 6-9 p.m. at various fire service locations throughout the county. All classes are taught by certified fire and emergency services professionals.

"This is one of the most popular programs offered to citizens by the department.  We've had tremendous success with the CFA program since it started in 2003," Rutledge said. "The CFA allows fire personnel to interact with citizens and business professionals on a non-emergency basis.  Firefighters are able to promote a safety message as well as the initiatives of the department.”

The CFA is a 12-week program conducted by the Fire Department and hosted by the Citizen Fire Academy Alumni Association. Participants must be 18 years of age or older and must live or work within Gwinnett County. Interested participants should complete an application online atwww.gwinnettfire.org or gwinnettcfaaa.org. Applications must be received no later than Friday, Aug. 26.

For additional information call, 678-518-4850 or e-mail fireprograms@gwinnettcounty.com


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