TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Tallahassee residents who want a closer look at the city’s fire service will have several opportunities through the Tallahassee Fire Department, including an eight-week Citizens Fire Academy planned for this fall.
The Citizens Fire Academy is an interactive course for adults ages 18 and up that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the fire service. The eight-week program is held Tuesdays from 6-8:30 p.m. at various Tallahassee Fire Department and public safety sites. Participants explore Tallahassee Fire Department operations, emergency response and fire prevention through hands-on demonstrations, station tours and ride-alongs. The department is asking people to join an interest list and said it will contact those who sign up when dates and registration details are available.
The department is also promoting several youth programs.
The Fully Committed Summer Camp is described as an “action-packed week” for rising fifth graders ages 10-11. Campers team up with firefighters to learn fire safety, build leadership skills and take part in hands-on challenges. The department said there is one week for boys and one week for girls.
For teens, the Cadet Program is open to youth ages 14-18 and includes hands-on training alongside Tallahassee Fire Department firefighters, EMTs and paramedics. Participants learn hose handling, rescue techniques and vehicle extrication, among other skills. Cadets attend monthly meetings, can gain experience through ride-alongs and participate in community service.
Camp Ignite is an all-girls program for ages 14-21 that includes hands-on firefighter training, team challenges, leadership workshops and career development opportunities. The department said campers will connect with female firefighters during the program.
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