Charlotte residents interested in the inside scoop on fire and emergency services will soon have a chance to experience it firsthand. Charlotte Fire's Citizen's Fire Academy is back on August 21, offering a nine-week program that promises comprehensive hands-on training and a transparent view of the department's daily operations. Participants will get a taste of everything from CPR to the intricacies of aircraft rescue at the Charlotte Douglas International Airport, guided by Charlotte's firefighters themselves.
Structured to foster a deeper public comprehension of the challenges and complexities faced by the contemporary fire service, the academy also aims to strengthen community ties, as envisioned by Charlotte Fire Chief Reginald Johnson. In a statement obtained by Charlotte's online news section, Chief Johnson emphasized, "It’s about connection. It’s about building trust and inspiring the next generation of advocates and leaders in public safety." Delving into varied elements of firefighting, from emergency medical services to hazardous materials, the academy's curriculum reflects the multifaceted nature of fire service work.
The free program, held each Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m., will culminate in a graduation ceremony on October 16, with a weekly focus on different areas of operations. Highlights include firsthand experiences with live fire equipment, touring firehouses, and a peek at the processing of 911 calls. Christy Iyoob, a firefighter and lead coordinator of the academy, shared with Charlotte's online news section that the program often leaves attendees with a newfound respect and enthusiasm for the profession, stating, "And the best part is, by the end, they feel like part of our fire family."
Scheduled to start on August 21, the Citizens' Fire Academy invites a diverse group of Charlotte residents over 18, including neighborhood leaders and educators, to partake in a safe and welcoming environment. According to Iyoob, the program caters to different comfort levels, offering participants the choice to either actively engage with the tools and equipment or just to observe.
