(MAR 21) The Columbus
Division of Fire is holding a ‘bootcamp,’ dubbed ‘Can You Take
the Heat,’ for Columbus residents who may be interested in a
career in public safety. The three-day, two-night experience is
being held at the Division of State Fire Marshal Ohio Fire
Academy and will give attendees the opportunity to participate
in search and rescue scenarios, obtain CPR certification and
extinguish simulated fires.
This initiative, which will be
held over two separate weekends, one for men and one for women,
was designed to promote diversity within the ranks of first
responders in Ohio’s capital city. Any Columbus resident with a
desire to someday become a firefighter or emergency medical
technician can take part in the program, which features a blend
of classroom instruction and hands-on training.
“As a Division, we have a commitment to service and the
enrichment of the residents of Columbus,” states Columbus
Division of Fire Chief Gregory A. Paxton. “There is nothing more
valuable than to cultivate the talent of this city.”
Participants will stay at the Ohio Fire Academy (OFA) in
Reynoldsburg which will help to simulate firehouse living. The
OFA campus, in addition to the residential quarters, has a live
burn building, a search and rescue maze, and the equipment and
emergency vehicles you would find in a fire station.
“This is an excellent opportunity for the men and women of
Columbus to come out and walk in a firefighter’s boots for a
weekend,” said State Fire Marshal Larry Flowers. “We’re excited
for the chance to partner with Chief Paxton and the city of
Columbus to make this experience a reality. Sharing services at
the state and local level is important, and I’ve always said
that public safety is a ‘team sport.’”
The Fire Extreme Bootcamp Series for men takes place from April
11, through April 13. The women’s series will then be held April
25 through April 27. Columbus residents can register via e-mail
at
TaketheHeat@com.ohio.gov or by phone at (614)
752-7196. The deadline to register for the Men’s Camp is March
31. The deadline to register for the Women’s Camp is April 7.
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