Beginning this month, members of the University Park community will have an opportunity to get hands-on training at a special fire academy that is being hosted in the city.

The Citizens Fire Academy is being hosted in University Park and will be from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. every Tuesday for ten consecutive weeks beginning March 20 at the city's fire station, which is located at 3800 University Blvd., and the UPFD drill field.

The academy will give participants an opportunity to "receive hands-on training and get an up-close look at department functions, including emergency medical services, firefighter hiring and training and special rescue operations training." 

Participants will also get to ride on the engine to emergency calls as a part of the course.

Anyone who is 18 or older that lives or works in University Park can participate, but the course is limited to the first 12 people who sign up. If you are interested in the academy and would like to find out more information or register, you can call (214) 987-5380.