Athens Citizens Fire Academy Signups Begin
(Post sponsored by Tinsley Law & Title, Holt Wrecker, R&R lawn specialists, Gibson Pharmacy)
It is time for the 2024 Athens Fire Department Citizens Fire Academy.
The Citizens Fire Academy will meet at 6 p.m. every Thursday beginning on March 7. Sessions are approximately three hours and are held at Central Fire Station, 610 S. Prairieville Street.
The deadline to join the class is Feb. 29. The class size will be limited to 25 students so sign up early.
"We're hosting this Academy so people can see what we do," said Athens Fire Marshal Lance West. "It will let people see all the hats that we wear whether it is fire, EMS, rescue, or more."
The purpose of the Academy is to enhance communication between the fire department and the community. It aims to encourage Academy graduates to return to their neighborhoods and educate their friends and neighbors on the proper safety procedures.
To be eligible for the Citizens Fire Academy, students must live or work in Henderson County, be 21 years of age or older, and have no criminal record.
Topics expected to be covered include:
1. Welcome and Introduction of CFA Participants
2. Fire Service History
3. CFA General Information
4. Overview of the Athens Fire Rescue
5. Department Hiring, Training and Continued Education
6. Visit the 911 dispatch center
7. Bunker Gear Demonstration
8. Apparatus and Equipment Demonstration
9. Explanation of Emergency Medical Services
10. Emergency Operations Center
11. Motor Vehicle Extrication Demonstration
12. Public Fire and Life Safety Education
13. Fire Chemistry, Fire Cause & Origin
14. Special Rescue - Technical Rescue Team Demonstration
15. Fire Scene Operations
16. Home Fire Safety/ Fire Extinguisher Training
17. Graduation
Please note that the Athens Fire Rescue Citizens Fire Academy is not a certification academy. It is an information-only program.
For more information or to sign up contact Lance West at lwest@athenstx.gov or call 903-677-6638.
