Summerville Fire & Rescue Citizens Fire Academy
The Summerville Fire & Rescue Citizens Fire Academy offers community members a behind-the-scenes look at life as a firefighter. Participants tour fire stations, meet firefighters, and gain hands-on experience with equipment and training.
The program is open to Summerville residents ages 21 and up. Classes meet on Tuesday evenings for 2-3 hours and cover topics like:
- Fire station and dispatch tours
- Firefighter hiring, training, and gear
- Emergency response procedures
- Hands-on firefighting activities
To apply, complete the online COVID waiver and application forms. Class size is limited.
About the Instructor
Battalion Chief Ben Woods heads the Citizens Fire Academy. Chief Woods grew up around the fire service and is a second-generation firefighter. He began as a volunteer firefighter at age 17, following in his father's footsteps.
Chief Woods has over 20 years of firefighting experience. He started his career as a volunteer and switched to a full-time paid firefighter in 1998. Chief Woods joined Summerville Fire & Rescue in 2006 and worked his way up through the ranks.
His hands-on experience and passion for the job make Chief Woods an ideal instructor for community members interested in the life of a firefighter.