Academy gives residents up close experience of Charlotte Fire
Published on June 01, 2023
Charlotte firefighters are sounding the alarm for their annual Citizen's Fire Academy. The program is designed for people who want to learn more about the daily lives of professional firefighters and heighten their awareness regarding fire and life safety.
The program participants will be immersed in a rich, learning environment that gives them an in-depth view of the Charlotte Fire Department’s services and capabilities. In addition, participants will have the opportunity to perform various skills of a professional firefighter.
The goal of the academy is to teach every participant the multitude of services and capabilities of the fire department and provide them with a clear understanding of the department’s commitment to service.
The Citizen's Fire Academy is open to adults 18 years old or older and who are Charlotte residents.
Citizens are selected based on demographics and the citizen's ability to reach other members of their community. In preparing for the Citizen's Fire Academy, efforts will be made to include educational, religious and business communities.
From fire trucks to the emergency communications center, the instructors are committed to providing the best learning experience. The eight-week academy begins Sept. 10 and meets each Thursday from 6 - 8 p.m.
The program graduates will receive a certificate of completion upon successful completion of the program. There is no charge to the participants; all materials are provided.
The Citizen's Fire Academy is a learning experience and is not intended to train people to become firefighters or to assist at a fire.
Week-by-Week Overview
Week 1 | September 10
Program Introduction and Charlotte Fire History
Begin the academy with an introduction to Charlotte Fire, its history and what it takes to become a Charlotte firefighter.
Week 2 | September 17
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Emergency Management
Learn how to prepare for emergencies and why every household should have a personal and family emergency plan.
Week 3 | September 24
Dive Team, Drone Team and Mutual Aid
Explore Charlotte Fire’s regional response capabilities and the partnerships that help agencies work together during complex emergencies.
Week 4 | October 1
Special Operations
Learn about the specialized teams, equipment and capabilities that support Charlotte Fire’s emergency response operations.
Week 5 | October 8
Charlotte Fire Training Academy
Tour the academy grounds and get a behind-the-scenes look at where Charlotte firefighters develop and maintain the skills needed to serve the community.
Week 6 | October 15
Charlotte Fire Support Services
Meet the teams and organizations that support Charlotte Fire and learn about the important role they play within the department and throughout the community.
Week 7 | October 22
Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting
Learn how Charlotte Fire prepares for and responds to aircraft emergencies at Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Participants will also see the specialized equipment and apparatus used during these incidents.
Week 8 | October 29
Graduation Ceremony
Celebrate the completion of the academy with Fire Chief Reginald Johnson and your classmates. Dinner will be served, and graduates will receive certificates of completion.
CLICK THIS LINK TO APPLY FOR THE CHARLOTTE FIRE CITIZEN'S FIRE ACADEMY.