A firefighter is defined as an individual employed to extinguish fires and rescue people. But what exactly does that mean?
The Cortez Fire Protection District is preparing to offer its next Citizen’s Fire Academy to show people what it takes to become a firefighter. With courses held every Thursday and Saturday, the four-week program kicks off Sept. 12.
“I’d suggest the academy to anyone interested in a new adventure,” said Cortez Fire Protection board member Orly Lucero. “You basically shadow a firefighter, and learn what they really do. It will open your eyes.”
When Lucero took the course in 2011, he was surprised to discover the amount of training hours firefighters must endure, the cost of firefighting equipment and protection services, along with how shiny the department can keep old, outdated fire trucks.
“The whole thing sort of blew my mind,” said Lucero.
Open to anyone above the 18, the fire service style program is designed to introduce citizens to the services offered by firefighters with classroom sessions, live demonstrations and a fire department ride along. The hands-on participation includes donning breathing apparatus gear inside a smoke-filled room, operating the Jaws of Life in an automobile accident simulation as well as operating hydrants and hoses to extinguish an active fire.
Applications to join the free Citizen’s Fire Academy are due Aug. 30, and the course is limited to 12 participants. For more, call (970) 565-3157.