Citizen's Fire Academy

This year marks the 25th Anniversary of our Citizens’ Fire Academy!  

Test your limits and see if you have what it takes to work on the front lines in fire and emergency services...

• Work in simulated live fire scenarios in full turnout gear

• Use the Jaws of Life to perform a vehicle extrication

• Go up in the basket of the ladder truck

• Advance hose lines for fire suppression

• Search a building to rescue victims

• Get certified in CPR and AED use

• Extinguish fire with a fire extinguisher

• Learn about fire behavior, fire safety, and emergency medical services.

• Get to know your local Fire Department Members who serve your community with Pride!

HEFD hosts a total of three different Fire Academy sessions that run Wednesday evenings from 6 to 8:30 p.m.

• Citizens Fire Academy (for those 21 and over): Wednesdays, March 4-April 8   Apply Here

• Teen Fire Academy (for those 14-20 years of age): Wednesdays, July 1-August 5   

  Apply Here

• Fully Involved Fire Academy (for those with special needs): Wednesdays, September 2-October 7   

  Apply Here

For more information, email HEFD.Public@vohe.org or call Fire Administration at 847-843-4825.

What our academy grads have said...

“ I had an amazing time and learned so much.  I looked forward to every week of class…” – Class of 2025

“This is a great opportunity and I made sure to always brag about it to everyone I know.  Thank you again!” – Class of 2024

“This class went above and beyond my expectations.  Every week we learned something new that we can apply to our lives.  I’m glad I signed up for this program.  More people should sign up and take advantage of the resources provided.  One of the best life experiences in my opinion.”  - Class of 2024

“All the instructors made us feel comfortable.  We were encouraged to ask questions.  We were treated with respect.  All questions were throughly answered. Everyone’s passion for their job was obvious.”  - Class of 2024

“The instructors all have hearts of gold and everything they do shows their love for the job and the community.”  - Class of 2025

“The experience more than met my expectations.  Great opportunity to learn the skills, technology, and personal commitment that the HE fire squad exhibited every Wednesday session.  I came away with a new appreciation and understanding after each and every Wednesday evening session.” – Class of 2024

 “Truly was a blast and I can’t recommend it enough.” – Class of 2023