WINDSOR LOCKS, CT - In July, the Connecticut Fire Academy celebrated the graduation of Introduction To The Fire Service Class 52. The Connecticut Fire Academy’s explains that their Introduction To The Fire Service (ITTFS) Program was designed to provide high school students with an opportunity to learn more about the profession by attending a residential camp and performing training evolutions at the Connecticut Fire Academy. 

Over the last 20 years, the program has evolved from the two original five-day sessions each summer to two, six-day residential sessions per summer. Many alumni have moved on to become full members of their Fire Departments, have attended college in Fire and EMS programs and have earned employment as career Firefighters.

Class 52 consisted of 32 fire cadets, juniors, and explorers from programs across Connecticut. This session immerses the students into the mission, culture and skill sets of the Fire Service. A strong emphasis is placed on character, self and mutual respect, individual empowerment and teamwork as students participate in physical fitness training, learn in a classroom setting, compete in team-based activities and progress in squads through a series of practical training evolutions divided into engine, ladder and rescue company fireground operations.  The class selects its own command staff based on the Incident Command System, who are responsible for the logistical support and operational performance of the group for the duration of the session.  

Guest speakers who represent a variety of functions within the Fire Service are invited in each night to provide a broad perspective of the trade. At the end of the session, the students respond to and mitigate a simulated multi-story building fire utilizing the skills that they have learned over the course of the week.