Cedar Falls Public Safety congratulates the graduates of its Youth Fire Academy which took place from July 20 through July 21. Cedar Falls students, ages 8-12, were invited to attend this free course which offered both hands-on training and education on fire prevention, first aid, careers in firefighting and emergency medical service, EMS operations, and much more.
24 students completed the course, earning a certificate and t-shirt.
"It has been a goal of the Public Safety Department to bring this opportunity to our area and the community response was extremely positive," said Fire Chief John Zolondek. "Students were able to learn about the career path of first responders as well as gain valuable information on what to do in the event of an emergency. These experiences also help strengthen the connection between our public safety team and the citizens we serve. We look forward to continuing this program in the future."
The two-day course was held from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on July 20 and 21 at the Cedar Falls Public Safety Center (4600 South Main Street). Fareway on South Main Street provided a complimentary lunch to participants and the Shirt Shack, Menards, and Brad Jacobson State Farm also sponsored the event. Hudson Fire Department additionally donated the use of its water fighting prop for the hands-on portion of the course and personnel from Black Hawk County Dispatch were present to teach students about 9-11 dispatch operations.
Public Safety will be hosting the next Youth Fire Academy in the summer of 2024. The community can stay updated on information about the program, including when registration opens, at www.cedarfalls.com/youthfireacademy and by following Public Safety on Facebook @CFPublicSafety.