West Des Moines, IA

 

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Citizens Fire Academy

Have you ever wondered what it is like to be a firefighter? Do you want to learn how the fire department responds to emergencies?

The West Des Moines Fire Department invites community members to participate in the Citizens Fire Academy (CFA). This program gives participants a behind-the-scenes look at how the fire department works and how firefighters respond to emergencies.

About the Program

The Citizens Fire Academy is a 9-week program that teaches participants about fire safety, emergency response, and the work firefighters do every day.

Classes include both classroom learning and hands-on activities. Participants will learn about:

• Fire safety and prevention

• Firefighting tactics and strategies

• Fire investigation

• Fire behavior

• Emergency response operations

Participants will also take part in hands-on training exercises designed to show how firefighters respond to real emergencies.

Hands-On Training

During the program, participants may have the opportunity to:

• Wear firefighter protective gear and a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)

• Practice vehicle extrication

• Participate in high-angle rope rescue training

• Observe or assist with vehicle fire training

• Practice searching a room for a trapped victim

• Experience live structure fire training

Schedule

The Citizens Fire Academy meets:

• Once per week for 9 weeks

• 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

The program also includes two Saturday training sessions.

Participants will receive:

• A Citizens Fire Academy T-shirt

• A personalized photo in firefighter gear

• An opportunity for a ride-along with a fire department crew

Cost

The cost of the program is $25.
Payment is collected during the first week of class.

How to Apply

To apply for the Citizens Fire Academy:

• Complete the application form

• Email it to Jim Kirkman, or

• Mail it to:

Citizens Fire Academy
P.O. Box 65320
West Des Moines, IA 50265

Questions

If you have questions, contact:

Fire Prevention Division
Phone: (515) 222-3420

Program Eligibility

• Participants must be 18 years or older

• City residency is not required

The Citizens Fire Academy begins in the spring.
Contact the Fire Department for the exact dates of the next academy.