(Lawrenceville, Ga., November 19, 2015) – The Gwinnett County Department of Fire and Emergency Services is proud to announce the graduation of its 22^nd Citizen Fire Academy (CFA) class.  The CFA is a 12-week volunteer program which allows citizens to experience first-hand the operations and activities of the fire and emergency services department.  The 22^nd CFA started on September 3 and graduated on November 19, during a special ceremony held at 6:30pm at Fire Headquarters in Lawrenceville.

The CFA is a hands-on, action-packed program, designed for anyone interested in learning more about the firefighting and emergency medical services offered by the department.  Topics covered include: incident command, search and rescue, fire control, medical operations, fire and life safety education, communications/9-1-1, business services, hazardous materials, swiftwater rescue, and technical rescue.  Participants experienced the day-to-day operations of a typical fire station by riding along during actual emergency calls.  Graduates of the CFA are able to continue their involvement with the department by becoming part of the Gwinnett Citizen Fire Academy Alumni Association (GCFAAA).  CFA Alumni members assist the department in meeting its mission of Saving Lives and Protecting Property by volunteering at community smoke alarm blitzes, public education-outreach programs, CPR classes, and Safe Kids Gwinnett functions.  CFA Alumni members are instrumental in helping the department implement vital community risk reduction strategies to enhance the quality of life for all ages.

Graduates of the 22^nd Citizen Fire Academy Class include: Jeanette Aymerich, Robert Baker, Reba Brown, Nicholas Doemland, Jay Gordon, Sharon Gordon, Susan Gordon, Gloria Huber, Khai-Hoan Huynh, Demetria Johnson, Stephen Jones, Ellen Summers, Cash Loffler, Alexis Palomar, Lorne Phillips, Terrill Simmons and Patrick Spink.  

To find out more about the Citizen Fire Academy and how you can get involved, please visit the website at www.gwinnettfire.org and click citizen groups.  You may also contact the CFA Coordinator at fireprograms@gwinnettcounty.com or call 678.518.4845.