The Valdosta Fire Department is once again partnering with the community through its Citizens Fire Academy Response Team (CFAR), a new citizens group designed to assist firefighters with non-suppression activities.

While members of the CFAR won’t be fighting fires, they will be responsible for other important tasks, such as making sure firefighters stay hydrated and cool while working. To be a part of the CFAR, a citizen must be a graduate of the Citizens Fire Academy, be CPR/AED certified, and complete the four-hour training during a live fire-burn training and refresher training annually. There are currently eight members on the inaugural team.

“The CFAR will help the VFD with large-scale incidents, fulfilling smaller yet necessary roles so firefighters can focus on the bigger jobs,” Fire Chief Freddie Broome said.  “The CFAR will also help the VFD accomplish two of the department’s main goals, which are to lower the Insurance Safety Office (ISO) rating and to remain involved in the community.”

Broome hopes the CFAR will reduce the VFD’s ISO rating—a score that plays a big part in determining insurance rates—from its current 2 rating to a 1 rating, which will result in significantly reduced insurance rates for local homeowners.

For those interested in joining the CFAR, the 2^nd Annual Citizens Fire Academy is right around the corner. The academy will take place each Tuesday night for nine weeks from 6-9 p.m., beginning Sept. 1 and ending Oct. 27. Classes will meet at the VFD Regional Training Center, and dinner will be provided each night. Interested citizens must be at least 18 years old and complete an application, background check and release of liability form. The application deadline is July 31, 2015. 

Participants will learn all aspects of the department’s operations, have an opportunity to participate in the VFD’s Ride-Along Program, and will also receive valuable life-safety CPR/AED certification training.   

“It is commendable that the Valdosta Fire Department would utilize citizens in the important work of the city,” said Claudia James, VFD Citizens Fire Academy Graduate and CFAR member. “It is a privilege to be a part of this inaugural team, and we all look forward to aiding our city firefighters through our supportive roles.”

Although the program is free, selected participants have to commit to attending all nine weeks of the academy. For more information about the Citizens Fire Academy and the CFAR, call the VFD at (229) 333-1835.