March 4, 2018
By: Dwayne Page
Would you like to get first hand experience of what it’s like to be a county volunteer firefighter and know more about how the department and supporting agencies operate ? Then the DeKalb County Volunteer Fire Department’s Citizens’ Fire Academy may be for you
You have a special invitation to enroll in the Spring Academy scheduled for April 17 through May 22. The classes meet each Tuesday from 6 p.m until 8 p.m. and there is no cost to participate.
Get an exciting “behind the scenes” look at how emergency services work for you. This academy is educational and fun.
To enroll or to get more information contact County Fire Chief Donny Green at 615-464-7176 or email” chief300@dtccom.net.
The deadline to enter is March 31.
Frequently Asked Questions about the DeKalb County Fire Department’s Citizens’ Fire Academy:
Q: What is the purpose and intent of the DCFD Citizens’ Fire Academy?
A:The purpose of this academy is to provide a behind-the-scenes look, from a citizens’ perspective, at the organizational structure, administration, operation, and response capabilities of the DeKalb County Fire Department and supporting agencies, such as the 911 Dispatch Center, law enforcement/investigations, emergency medical services, and fire prevention and safety agencies.
Q: Is there a cost to participate in the DCFD Citizens’ Fire Academy?
A:There is absolutely no cost for participating in this academy. Participants will be provided a light meal at each session and there will be a graduation ceremony and meal on May 22. We also provide each participant with an official DeKalb County Fire Department Citizens’ Fire Academy t-shirt!
Q: Will participants be trained to be firefighters?
A:Although class participants will have the opportunity to have some hands-on experience, the intent of this course is not to make firefighters out of participants.
Q: Will participants be required to perform strenuous activities?
A: No. Participants have the choice to participate as observers, or they can also volunteer to participate in hands- on tasks at whatever level they feel comfortable. Regardless of your physical condition, everyone can participate and have a positive and fun experience in this program.
Q: What is the class schedule?
A: We will be meeting weekly on Tuesday evenings from 6-8 pm beginning on April 17 and the academy graduation will be on May 22. Participants will meet at the DeKalb County Fire Department’s Headquarters at 782 King Ridge Rd., Dowelltown, TN. 37059. It is very important that participants plan to be at every session.
Q: Who is eligible to participate in the DCFD Citizens’ Fire Academy?
A: Anyone who lives or works in DeKalb County is invited to participate. However, we would like to place emphasis and strongly urge our community and business leaders to take part in this educational opportunity.
Q: Who can I talk to that has completed this academy that can give me a recommendation?
A: The Spring 2018 session will be our 9th session since we began the academy and we have had over 70 graduates who have provided us with very positive feedback about their experience. You can contact Chief Donny Green at (615) 464-7176 and he will be happy to provide you with contact information for academy alumni.
Q: What is the deadline to request participation in the Spring 2018 session of the DCFD Citizens’ Fire Academy?
A: We will continue to accept requests for enrollment until March 31, 2018.
Q: How do I sign up to confirm my intent to participate in the Spring 2018 DCFD Citizens’ Academy?
A: All you have to do is either email Chief Donny Green at chief300@dtccom.net, or call 615-464-7176 to submit your name for consideration before the class fills up. Remember, we strive to keep the class size to a maximum of 15 students. Please do not delay confirming your intent to enroll if you are interested in participating.