Free hands-on program educates residents about fire services

Forsyth County residents are encouraged to apply for the Fire Department’s annual Citizens’ Fire Academy, a 10-week course offering participants an inside look at the profession of firefighting.

“The academy is truly a unique chance for citizens to get a behind-the-scenes look at their fire department and the services that we provide to protect them each day,” said Fire Chief Barry Head. “Not only will participants get a hands-on learning experience, but they also will get to interact with first responders.”

The Citizens’ Fire Academy will be held on ten consecutive Tuesday evenings from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. beginning March 8, continuing through May 17 (April 5 off for Spring Break). The course will be held at Fire Department Headquarters at the Forsyth County Public Safety Complex (3520 Settingdown Rd.) in north Forsyth County.

Participants must be 25 years of age or older, have no prior felony conviction, pass an acceptable background check and be a resident of Forsyth County. Participants must be willing to make a 10-week commitment to the program.

Those interested in applying for the Citizens’ Fire Academy must submit a completed application, a signed and notarized liability release, and a signed and notarized confidentiality agreement. The application packet is available by clicking here and is on the Fire Department’s page on the Forsyth County website at forsythco.com. Space in the program is limited, and selection is first-come, first-served pending a successful background check.

Application packets must be received by Feb. 25. Candidates accepted for the academy will be notified on March 1. For more information about the Citizens’ Fire Academy, please call Bridgette Butynski at (770) 205-5699.