Ten students recently graduated Murfreesboro Fire & Rescue Department’s 11th Session of the Citizens Fire Academy (CFA).
The students completed a six-week course in which they were able to sample activities that MFRD personnel do on a daily basis. Students donned turnout gear, experienced climbing a 65’ aerial, practiced extrication, conducted a search and rescue attempt, and much more.
Graduation was held October 29 at MFRD Headquarters. Each student received a certificate of completion, a class photo, and a CD with pictures and video from the experience.
During the graduation, student feedback was shared with those in attendance, including Chief Cumbey Gaines and department instructors for the class.
A few of the comments were:
“The information on how the fires travel and how hot they become really had my interest.”
“The tower truck ride was my favorite event of the evening. Turnouts really do give a sense of the apparel weight and protection. All personnel have been great and are greatly appreciated.”
“Extrication was an awesome experience. Enjoyed the entire evening and appreciate everyone who made it possible.”
“I enjoyed climbing the 65’ ladder. I also thought learning how to use the GPS was interesting.”
“Learning how the department’s EMTs and Rutherford County EMS work together was exciting!”
Administrative Assistant and CFA Coordinator Laurie Alsup commented on the class, “The feedback from this class made it even more clear that the CFA instructors are passionate about teaching others what they do in the fire service. This is just a small glimpse into the situations our personnel face, but we enjoy sharing this with our students.”
The Citizens Fire Academy is held in the fall of each year. The CFA offers a small group of area residents the opportunity to view and participate in activities and services provided by MFRD. Information regarding upcoming classes is generally released each August. If you would like to know more about the Citizens Fire Academy visit the Fire & Rescue page on the City of Murfreesboro’s website or contact MFRD at 615-893-1422.
Front Row: (L to R) Sandra Harris, Shannon Logan, Cara Slattery, and Mary Jo Mitchell.
Back Row: (L to R) Chief Cumbey Gaines, German Yocotu, Mark Jamison, Chase Patterson, Shannon McCann, Axl David, Diane Demumbreum, and Deputy Chief Roger Toombs.