Hands-on Training Part of 8-Week Course

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (August 16, 2016) – The Little Rock Fire Department is inviting City residents to get a first-hand look at its operations during this year’s Citizen’s Fire Academy.

The academy is a free eight-week course for those 21 and older who are interested in learning about the department. Through classroom instruction, hands-on participation and live demonstrations, the academy provides participants with knowledge of the core job functions of the Fire Department.

“Fighting fires is the most high-profile of our duties, but it is just one of many services we provide to our citizens,” Fire Chief Gregory Summers said. “Each year, we are excited to share with the community the many different aspects of our department.”

Participants will meet at the Fire Training Academy each Thursday from Aug. 25 to Oct. 13 and learn about topics such as Little Rock’s hiring and training process, apparatus familiarization, the hazardous materials (HAZMAT) team, Urban Search and Rescue (USAR), and firefighting tactics and strategies.   The Fire Prevention and Community Outreach Division will give an overview of its operations as well.

Participants will also receive CPR training. 

The last day of class will consist of hands-on training and demonstrations such as vehicle extrication and rappelling. The last week of academy will coincide with the start of Fire Prevention Week, which is Oct. 9-15. 

The enrollment period will stay open through Aug. 24, with the first class beginning Aug. 25. Class size is limited to 30 people.

The Little Rock Fire Training Facility is located at 7000 Murray Street.

To sign up, residents can contact the Fire Department administration at 501-918-3704. 

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