The public can get a firsthand look at how the Village of Pinehurst Fire Department trains and responds to the emergency needs of our community by attending the inaugural Citizens Fire Academy.
The Citizens Fire Academy is a free 7-week course offered to those who live or work in the area served by the Pinehurst Fire Department (Pinehurst, Taylortown or rural district). Participants will have the opportunity to learn about fire department operations and how it assists citizens when an emergency happens.
“We often hear the question, what do firefighters do when they aren’t fighting fires?” said Pinehurst Fire Department Lieutenant and Citizens Academy Lead Instructor Austin Majors. “This new Academy will give participants a behind-the-scenes look at the ongoing training and preparation that happens daily in the fire station.”
Pinehurst Fire Department Lieutenant and Citizens Academy Lead Instructor Austin Majors. Photo by Sandhills Sentinel Photographer John Patota.
The Academy will resemble real-life as a firefighter as participants receive classroom instruction on Fire Department operations and hands-on firefighter safety and protective gear training. Outside the classroom, instructors will give demonstrations on lifesaving equipment, like the Jaws of Life.
The Pinehurst Citizens Fire Academy will take place on Tuesdays, Oct. 5 through Nov. 16, from 6 — 9 p.m., at Fire Station I (405 Magnolia Rd.). To apply for the free Academy, you meet the residency requirement and be at least 18 years old.
Participants can apply online at www.vopnc.org/fire (scroll down and select Citizens Academy Application). Applications are due by Sept. 22. Space is limited.
“The end goal for the Pinehurst Citizens Fire Academy is for participants to walk away with a better understanding of how their local Fire Department operates,” said Pinehurst Fire Chief Carlton Cole. “They will also be able to answer what firefighters do when not fighting fires — training and learning to be more proficient.”
For more information on the Village of Pinehurst Fire Department, visit vopnc.org or call 910-295-5575.
Contributed.
