LAURINBURG — Sandhills Fire Academy 4 graduated their most recent class on June 4.
The four-month program prepares students for a career as a firefighter. Graduates receive certifications in Firefighter I/II, Technical Rescuer General, Technical Rescue Vehicle Machinery Rescue, Rapid Intervention, and Wildland Fire Suppression.
Students attended class 39 hours per week at Larry R Caddell Public Safety Training Center. All students were volunteers for their local fire departments and intend to pursue careers in the fire service.
Fire Academy 5 will start July 13 and end in November. The registration fee is $830, which may be waived if students volunteer with a local fire department. A personal protective gear rental fee of $500 can also be waived for those who volunteer. Other program fees total about $260.