Applications Open for Gwinnett Citizen's Fire Academy

Submitted by Gwinnett Fire and Emergency Services

The Gwinnett County Department of Fire and Emergency Services is now accepting applications for the 21st Citizen Fire Academy (CFA) Class.

The CFA is a 12-week volunteer program which allows citizens to experience the fire department first-hand. The 21st CFA Class will be held on Thursdays, starting March 5 through May 28, 2015, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. No class sessions will be held during Spring Break, April 6-10.

The CFA is a hands-on, action-packed program, designed for anyone interested in learning more about the firefighting and emergency medical services offered by the department. Topics covered will include: incident command, search and rescue, fire control, medical operations, fire and life safety education, communications/9-1-1, business services, hazardous materials, swiftwater rescue, and technical rescue.

Participants will experience the day-to-day operations of a typical fire station by riding along during actual emergency calls. Graduates of the CFA are able to continue their involvement with the department by becoming part of the Gwinnett Citizen Fire Academy Alumni Association (GCFAAA).

CFA Alumni members assist the department in meeting its mission of Saving Lives and Protecting Property by volunteering at community smoke alarm blitzes, public education-outreach programs, CPR classes, and Safe Kids Gwinnett functions. CFA Alumni members are instrumental in helping the department implement vital community risk reduction strategies to enhance the quality of life for all ages.

To find out more about the Citizen Fire Academy and how you can get involved, please visit the website at www.gwinnettfire.org and click citizen groups. You may also contact the CFA Coordinator at fireprograms@gwinnettcounty.com or678.518.4845.

All applications for the 21st Citizen Fire Academy Class must be received in the coordinator’s office no later than February 17, 2015. Applications received after that time will be considered for the 22nd CFA Class to be held in September.

— From Gwinnett Fire Capt. Tommy Rutledge

(Photos: Gwinnett Fire PIO)