Firefighter Internship Program Set To Fire Back Up

In Wy some seniors take getting fired up for the new school year quite literally.

For the second year, and are partnering up for a unique internship program. Beginning this past January, four high school seniors participated in a semester-long training program. They learned all the basics of firefighting, including live fire training. The internship culminated with them becoming fully certified firefighters. Following graduation, all four joined the fire department as volunteer firefighters.

"This year, instead of just one semester, we are going to extend the program to the entire school year" said Jon Marsh, Walton County Fire and Rescue's training chief. "This will give the students more instructional time. The more hands on training, the better it is for them once they enter the field."

Students will spend Monday through Thursday mornings at Fire Station 14 in Walker Park. There, they will be given the same classroom instruction and hands on training that firefighter recruits receive. They will be graded on test scores, participation and ability to pass practical evaluations. They will also be given instruction on how to begin their careers in the fire service by learning about resumes, applications and interviews.

Once class ends at 10 a.m., they will return to school to attend their regular classes. At the end of the school year, they will take the Georgia standard test for firefighters. If they pass, they will become certified firefighters and offered positions as volunteer firefighters with WCFR. They will also be able to seek employment in the fire service as paid positions become available.

The internship program is available to Seniors at , l, Monroe Area High School and . To date, six students are enrolled in the program but there is room for more. Fire Department representatives will be at Open House at each school, or if you are interested you can contact Battalion Chief Jon Marsh at 770-266-1390 or email at jmarsh@co.walton.ga.us