Teen Fire Academy

At the West Hartford Teen Fire Academy, we aim to provide a safe and educational environment where campers aged 13-17 can develop valuable skills that can last a lifetime. Our team of experienced firefighters have planned a program that

will challenge and inspire you. The Fire Academy offers adolescents a valuable experiential learning opportunity to explore career pathways within the fire service. Prospective participants should be aware that the program necessitates significant physical exertion, exposure to elevated noise levels, and the development of mental resilience to ensure successful completion.

About the Fire Academy

Fire Academy Training: Immerse yourself in a comprehensive training program designed to simulate the experience of a real firefighter academy. You will learn the fundamental skills necessary to become a cadet firefighter.

Practical Skills Development: Engage in hands-on training sessions where you will practice essential firefighting skills, such as hose handling, hydrant operations, and search and rescue techniques. Experience the thrill of simulated fire scenarios to test your knowledge and skills under controlled conditions.

Leadership and Teamwork: Cultivate leadership qualities and enhance your teamwork abilities through a series of exercises and challenges. Learn the importance of effective communication, decision-making, and collaboration in high-pressure situations.

Fire Service Ethics and Values: Discover the core values of the firefighting profession, including integrity, respect, and selfless service. Explore the ethics that guide firefighters and develop a strong sense of responsibility towards the community. 

Expectations

At the fire academy, we have clear expectations for all participants to ensure a safe and productive learning environment. These expectations revolve around punctuality, active listening, and following directions.

Attendance - It is expected that cadets will attend all the days of the camp.

Punctuality: Being on time is crucial in the fire service, where every second counts. We expect all participants to arrive promptly for all training sessions and drills, and any other scheduled activities. Punctuality shows dedication, respect for others' time, and a commitment to the training process.

Active Listening: Firefighting involves teamwork and effective communication. Active listening is a fundamental skill that all participants must practice. Paying full attention to instructions, demonstrations, and feedback from instructors is essential for understanding and executing tasks safely and efficiently.

Following Directions: Firefighters often work in high-stress situations, and following directions accurately can be a matter of life and death. In the academy, we emphasize the importance of following instructions carefully and executing tasks as taught by the instructors. This ensures consistency and adherence to established safety protocols.

Expected Behavior – We believe in the power of a positive and supportive atmosphere to enhance the learning experience for all participants. We set high expectations for every cadet. Emphasizing the importance of respectful and inclusive behavior in all interactions. Our academy is not solely focused on imparting firefighting skills; it's an opportunity to improve leadership skills. To achieve this, we encourage all cadets and instructors, to treat each other with respect. 

The Fire Academy has a zero-tolerance policy for poor behavior. We are committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment for all participants. Any form of disrespectful, disruptive, or harmful conduct will not be tolerated.

Instances of poor behavior may include but are not limited to harassment, discrimination, bullying, insubordination, or any actions that undermine the well-being and learning experience of others. Such behavior not only hinders individual progress but also compromises the overall effectiveness of the training and teamwork necessary in firefighting.

Participants who engage in poor behavior will be subject to appropriate disciplinary actions, which may include removal from the squad for a period of time or the remainder of the day, depending on the severity and frequency of the misconduct.

Physical Fitness: During your time at camp, we have scheduled a daily physical fitness session from 9:00 AM to 9:30 AM. This session will focus on enhancing your physical capabilities and improving your overall fitness level. You can expect a variety of exercises, including push-ups, squats, and jumping jacks, to develop strength, endurance, and agility.

By adhering to these expectations, participants not only demonstrate professionalism and dedication but also contribute to the overall success of the academy. We believe that instilling these core values and behaviors prepares individuals to become competent and reliable firefighters, capable of working effectively as part of a team.

Contact

If you have any questions or concerns, please email Andrew.Eccles@westhartfordct.gov or you may call 860-480-5620. We look forward to hearing from you!