Neighbor News
Murrieta Fire Department Inaugural Citizen's Fire Academy Graduation and Muster Commences
Residents complete participation in 8-week interactive fire academy to gain a behind the scenes experience of the firefighting profession
Saturday morning 24 eager Murrieta residents and their families met in the Murrieta Fire Department training room at Station 1, in the old town area of Murrieta. The 24 residents were awaiting their graduation and muster from the Department’s inaugural Citizen’s Fire Academy. The eight-week academy took cadets on a comprehensive journey of understanding the various aspects of the Department including, finance, fire communications, fire prevention, apparatus, facilities, fire suppression and tactical medic training. Each academy class included both lecture, as well as hands-on manipulative.
“We wanted to connect with our community by giving them an understanding of the intricacies associated with running a city fire department. The Academy was created with the intention to give residents a behind the scenes glimpse into our department, as well as provide cadets with the opportunity to experience some of the physical training and skills used on the job,“ stated Murrieta Fire Chief Scott Ferguson. “The job of a firefighter is both physically and emotionally demanding. By allowing our residents to understand these challenges we are able to better to connect with the community that we serve.”
The Academy cadet graduates included a diverse group of individuals. Participants varied in age, occupation, as well as physical abilities. The Department worked with cadets with varying physical abilities to offer an inclusive program for all involved. The most senior member of the Academy was 71 years-old, while the most junior member was 18 years-old. Participant occupations also ranged from a stay-at-home mother, to a Murrieta city manager to students and even a hypnotherapist.
“The training received over the last 8 weeks was phenomenal. My personal favorite was rappelling from the community building across the street. That was one of the most exhilarating experiences,” shared Kevin Stone, academy cadet.
“Climbing the ladders and rappelling off the roof was thrilling, but learning about what the firefighters do every day, what their responsibilities are and the lives they save was eye-opening. The academy is a great opportunity for anyone looking for a challenge and education about what the Murrieta Fire Department does for the residents,” said James Tomaszewski, academy cadet.
The Grand Champions of the Battle Royale muster competition received trophies. The morning concluded with a Tri-Tip BBQ lunch for all Academy members, instructors and guests, provided by the Murrieta Fire Association.
