TALLAHASSEE, Fla. \u2014 Tallahassee residents who want a closer look at the city\u2019s fire service will have several opportunities through the Tallahassee Fire Department, including an eight-week Citizens Fire Academy planned for this fall.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
The department is also promoting several youth programs.<\/p>\n
The Fully Committed Summer Camp is described as an \u201caction-packed week\u201d 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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n