HARRISONBURG, VA (Rocktown Now) – The Harrisonburg Fire Department is inviting community members who are interested in a career as a firefighter to attend their annual Community Fire Academy.

HFD’s annual Community Fire Academy starts Wednesday, May 7, and applications are currently open to community members 18 years old or older. The free program, which runs Wednesday nights from 6-9 p.m. through June 11, spans six weeks – educating participants on how the department operates and serves the community.

For HFD members, the academy also serves as an opportunity to foster relationships and build partnerships within The Friendly City and beyond.

“We appreciate every single chance we get to positively engage with the people of Harrisonburg,” HFD Chief Matthew Tobia said. “The women and men of HFD are dedicated to serving our community and being part of making this such a special place to live and visit. To get to share what we do and why we do it during our Community Fire Academy is something we all cherish.”

Participants will learn how HFD runs operationally, while also learning lifesaving skills like how to use a fire extinguisher and hands only CPR.

There will be numerous equipment and facility tours and an opportunity to do a ride along with a fire engine. The academy will provide a fun, hands-on experience for all participants.

Applications, which close on May 2, can be found online at https://www.harrisonburgva.gov/community-fire-academy. First preference for open positions is given to those who live in Harrisonburg, though anyone living in Rockingham County or surrounding counties are welcome to apply and will be accepted if seats remain in the program.