The Lombard Fire Department is hosting its Annual Jr. Firefighter Academy to give high school-age students from Lombard, who are interested in careers in fire science or emergency medical services, a chance to learn directly from fire and EMS personnel.
The program will take place over two, 6-hour sessions held on two consecutive Saturdays on April 30th and May 7th, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., at Fire Station #45, 50 E. St. Charles Rd. The program is open to boys and girls, who live in Lombard and are ages 14 to 18.
Participants will come away from the academy with an understanding of how the Lombard Fire Department is structured, the responsibilities and capabilities of each apparatus and the teamwork required for the fire service to execute its duties. The academy will be a combination of lecture and hands-on drills. Participants will be asked to do such physical activity as carry hoses and tools, ascend stairs and crawl. All activities will be conducted under the close supervision of fire personnel. Participants will be asked to sign a release at the beginning of the first class.
“We’re looking forward to teaching local youth about Fire Department operations,” said Fire Chief Paul DiRienzo. “These students will get close attention from Fire Department personnel and a chance to participate in drills that mimic real-life scenarios Lombard Firefighters and EMS face on a daily basis. It’s an incredible opportunity and we’re looking forward to working with this year’s class.”
Applications are available at www.villageoflombard.org/jrfirefighteracademy. Those interested in applying should fill out the application and email it to meadea@villageoflombard.org or return it to Village Hall by Friday, April 22nd. Students chosen for the program will be notified Monday, April 25. Anyone with questions regarding the program or application process can contact Communications Coordinator Avis Meade at (630) 620-5718 or meadea@villageoflombard.org.