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Overview
Overview
The Community Fire Academy is an invitation from us to you. We want you to experience your fire service first hand. When you participate in this program you will see how our emergency response teams operate at emergencies. You will also learn how the department works in the background.
Students will:
Receive hands-on training in bystander CPR, first aid, and other lifesaving skills.
Develop leadership skills.
Learn operational policies.
Explore innovative ways to connect with our communities.
Community engagement is at the heart of what we do. This experience will show how MCFRS adds value to Montgomery County.
Purpose
Purpose
The purpose of the Community Fire Academy is to educate you about our history and what we do in the community.
The program enhances community partnerships by helping participants understand how we operate. We want to:
Increase community understanding of MCFRS operations.
Improve preparedness.
Improve partnerships.
Increase engagement with those we serve.
Promote career paths with the fire service
Promote volunteer paths with the fire service.
Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility Requirements
The Community Fire Academy is open people who are 18 years of age or older and:
Are Montgomery County residents, or
Work in Montgomery County, or
Are business owners in Montgomery County.
Program Details
Program Details
All sessions start at the Public Safety Training Academy. The Academy is located at 8751 Snouffer School Road.
For some sessions students will remain at the PSTA for the entire session. For other sessions students will visit other MCFRS worksites. Transportation will be provided.
Sessions will include two main forms of learning: classroom presentations and hands-on activities.
The hands on portion of the class will cover CPR and other fire department tasks.
For those who want to do a ride along the chance will be available.
Program Schedule
Program Schedule
Wednesday, September 16, 2026 (6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.)
Wednesday, September 23, 2026 (6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.)
Wednesday, September 30, 2026 (6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.)
Wednesday, October 7, 2026 (6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.)
Wednesday, October 14, 2026 (6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.)
Wednesday, October 21, 2026 (6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.)
Wednesday, October 28, 2026 (6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.)
Wednesday, November 4, 2026 (6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.)
Saturday, November 14, 2026 (8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.)
Wednesday, November 18, 2026 (6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.) Graduation Ceremony
Registration
Registration
To register for the MCFRS Community Fire Academy use the links below to complete the registration form. The class is limited to 25 students. Registrants who meet the eligibility requirements will be admitted on a first come, first served basis. If you are selected you will be provided with additional forms to complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
When are the Community Fire Academy sessions held?
The Community Fire Academy will be held in the spring and fall of each year. The Fall 2026 session will begin on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
How long is the Community Fire Academy, and how often will there be classes?
The Community Fire Academy is 10 weeks long. Classes will be held once a week on Wednesday nights from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., with one Saturday session.
What will I learn from the Community Fire Academy?
Topics covered will include:
Who works for your Fire Department and their roles.
Divisions within MCFRS.
Emergency Medical Service skills, including Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, and First Aid.
Operational skills..
How do I apply for the Community Fire Academy?
Apply online using the registration link above. A hard copy of the application is available upon request. For more information or to request a paper application contact the Community Action Team. An email link is provided below. The link will open in your native email application:
FRS.CommunityAcademy@montgomerycountymd.gov.
How much does the Community Fire Academy cost?
There is no charge to participate.
Will I be participating in any physical activities?
Some sessions will include hands-on activities such as CPR, lifting equipment, and operating tools. Participation in physical activities is optional.
Can I apply even if I cannot participate in the physical portion?
You may apply even if you choose not participate in the physical activities.
Will I be certified to perform the skills I learn in the Community Fire Academy?
Participants will not be certified to practice the skills shown in the Community Fire Academy.
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