Crime & Safety
Gwinnett Citizens Fire Academy Starts In September
Applications to be part of the academy are being accepted now.
Dream of being a fire fighter? Now you can see what firefighters do by signing up for the 16th Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services Citizen Fire Academy.
Those who sign up will learn about fire prevention, incident management, and EMS operations. Community risk reduction and specialty team operations are also covered in this 12-week course that starts on Thursday, Sept. 1. Crews from Fire Station No. 13 in Suwanee will be among those participating.
“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.”
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A scheduled ride along to respond to actual emergencies is also a part of the class.
All classes are taught by certified fire and emergency services professionals at various fire service locations throughout the county. The classes are held on Thursday nights from 6-9 pm starting Sept. 1st and ending on Nov. 17.
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"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 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 at www.gwinnettfire.org or gwinnettcfaaa.org. Applications must be received no later than Friday, Aug. 26.
For additional information call, 678-518-4850 or email fireprograms@gwinnettcounty.com.