Fire Science explored firsthand at weeklong COT academy

MSU BILLINGS NEWS SERVICES — Anyone who has ever wanted to experience the adrenaline rush of emergency service, was curious about life as a firefighter or simply wanted to learn more about fire suppression, a weeklong academy on fire science will fit the bill.

The Montana State University Billings College of Technology, in partnership with the Billings Fire Department, the Lockwood Fire Department and the Billings Logan Aircraft Fire and Rescue, will present a Fire Science Basic Field Academy from June 22-26 to introduce people to the fire science and suppression.

A unique camp designed to expose people the world of firefighting, the weeklong event will have lessons ranging anywhere from fitting for gear, to rescue and burn extinguishing sessions on the Rims, to an actual fire watch. Life safety, extradition, communication and team-building will be explored in an experiential learning environment.  Rope and rescue techniques will be explored and the basics of wild land fires will be studied in a natural setting.

Fee for the academy is $374. Participants must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or a GED.  Participants can be 17 years old, but need to be enrolled in the MSU Billings College of Technology Fire Science program for Fall 2009. 

Some slots are still available for the academy. For more information, contact Jennifer Woegens at 247-3007or go to jwoegens@msubillings.edu.