Redding, Calif. – The Redding Fire Department is set to launch its inaugural Citizen Academy, a four-week program designed to offer residents a comprehensive and hands-on experience in firefighting operations. The academy aims to provide an in-depth understanding of key areas such as fire prevention, emergency response, and the daily responsibilities of firefighters.
Scheduled to begin on March 5, 2025, the academy will convene weekly on Wednesdays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Participants will engage in a variety of interactive activities, including donning firefighting gear, climbing aerial ladders, practicing CPR and first aid, and witnessing live demonstrations of fire behavior and vehicle extrication. Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to tour fire stations, explore fire engines, and closely observe emergency response procedures.
Beyond the weekly sessions, the program offers ride-alongs and a special hands-on Saturday session, allowing for a more immersive experience of the department’s operations. The academy is open to Redding residents aged 18 and over, with no felony convictions or recent misdemeanors. To successfully graduate, participants must attend at least three sessions and are encouraged to participate in a ride-along to gain firsthand experience of emergency response.
With space limited to 15–20 participants, the program promises a personalized learning experience. The academy is offered at no cost and will culminate in a graduation ceremony, allowing participants to celebrate their achievements with friends and family.
Applications for the Citizen Academy are currently open and can be submitted online at www.cityofredding.gov/rfdcitizenacademy.
