Apply now for this free program offered April 8 – May 27
Franklin, TN - Have you always wanted to try out the “Jaws of Life,” break down a door, ride in a platform at the top of a 100’ aerial ladder truck, or put the “wet stuff on the red stuff?” Then the Franklin Fire Department’s Citizens’ Fire Academy is for you!
This year’s program will take place April 8 - May 27. During this eight-week, hands-on program, participants ride along on fire calls and fire inspections, learn how to operate hose lines and other fire equipment, perform vehicle extrication and search and rescue, learn CPR ,and ride in a platform at the top of a ladder truck. Live firefighting is the course finale, where participants use all of the knowledge and skills they’ve learned to extinguish fires and get everyone out of the building safely. On the live firefighting night, Franklin Firefighters are stationed throughout the burn tower to operate the live fire props and assist the participants.
Franklin Fire Captain Ben Marler, who coordinates the academy, started the program in 2007 with the support of Franklin Fire Chief Rocky Garzarek. The program has had 36 graduates to date. Marler said the academy was created to help educate the community, gain support and promote fire safety.
The program is offered to people who live and work in Franklin. Participants must be at least 21 years of age, and commit to attending seven of the eight classes. The group meets at the Franklin Fire Training Center on Century Court on Thursday evenings. There is no cost for the program.
If you are interested in participating in the 2010 Citizens’ Fire Academy, to obtain an application please visit the Franklin Fire Department website at www.franklintn.gov/fire. For more information call (615) 791-3270 or email Marler at [email protected].
