Peters Township Fire Department Recruiting for Citizens Fire Academy

If you ever had even the slightest temptation to get involved with or learn more about your hometown fire department, the Peters Township Fire Department has an upcoming program for you.

The department is planning a first for the area—a Citizens Fire Academy.

“It’s a way for us to show our citizens and business owners what our fire department is all about,” said fire Lt. Michael McLaughlin, who is spearheading the program. “This is a fun opportunity to come and get some experience and training.”

The education-based classes will run once weekly beginning Oct. 24 and ending Dec. 6 with a graduation ceremony to cap it off.

And McLaughlin emphasized: Those who join the Citizens Fire Academy will be treated just like a member of the department.

“You’ll even have your own turn out gear for the duration of the program, and if we get a call during a class, you can ride along with us,” he said.

Subjects ranging from fire dynamics to how to properly use an extinguisher will be discussed during the classes. Department volunteers will also be onhand to help make intruction more personal.

“They will get training they can use everyday,” McLaughlin said. “A lot of misconceptions out there will hopefully be erased.”

Another part of the program? A class that will certify participants to perform CPR.

“The more people who know how to do CPR, everyone else is that much safer,” he said.

There is no cost to attend the Citizens Fire Academy, McLaughlin added.

Those interested in attending should contact the Peters Township Fire Department at 724-941-4176 to register. Or more information can also be gleaned from the department website here.