The La Vergne Fire Department will hold its first Citizens Fire Academy from October 8 - December 10. All classes are scheduled from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. at Fire Station 3 located at 301 Bill Stewart Blvd.

"We have experienced tremendous change in the Fire Department these past two years," said Fire Chief Rick McCormick. "Going from a private fire company to a municipal owned department has provided tremendous opportunities to better protect life and property. We are now fully staffed and trained, we have been equipped with the proper gear and vehicles, and we now have the resources in place to reach out to our citizens."

The eight week academy is being taught by Assistant Chief Mike Culberson and Assistant Chief Chris Clark, along with other fire personnel. Topics include turnout gear, self-contained breathing apparatus, building construction, ladders (with a view 100-ft up), hydrant maintenance, fire extinguishers and use of foam, and more.

Academy activities will involve physical exertion and the enrollment questionnaire includes whether potential students have a fear of heights, small spaces, or wearing a face mask. To be eligible for the class, participants must be at least 21 years of age, live in La Vergne, or work in the city.

Class size is limited to 15-20 students. Registration and other waiver forms are available online and must be turned in no later than October 5, 2015. Completed forms may be faxed to 615-793-9111, emailed to mculberson@lavergnetn.gov, or dropped off at Station 2, located at 609 Waldron Road, during regular business hours.