News Photo by Steve Schulwitz Doug Keogh, Alpena firefighter/paramedic/training officer, inspects an air tank and respirator while at work on Wednesday. Keogh said people in Alpena County who are interested in becoming firefighters should take advantage of a free fire academy that begins next month.

ALPENA — Fire departments in Alpena County have seen a reduction of firefighters on their staff for several years and steps are being taken to address the public safety issue.

Thanks to funding from the State of Michigan, a fire academy for new recruits will be held in Alpena County.

Alpena Firefighter/Paramedic/Training Officer Doug Keogh said the academy offers people who want to become certified firefighters a free opportunity to do so.

The classes and hands-on training begin on Oct. 2 and wrap up on May 18 when the new first responders graduate. Keogh said Wednesday evening classes are lectures and most Saturdays are hands-on training.

There will be no classes around holidays, deer season, and spring break, Keogh said.

Keogh said most fire departments in the surrounding townships struggle to recruit new firefighters and are shorthanded. He said the hope is that people who want to get into the firefighting field will attend the academy and help bolster the local firefighting crews.

“We need help,” Keogh said. “For a while now, all fire departments are hurting for people. Not as many people are going into the field and this is a possible solution to get more certified firefighters because you can’t do anything until you become certified. This academy is the starting point for everyone.”

Keogh said once someone becomes a certified firefighter they can become paid-on-call fire first responders and, if they choose, continue to move forward to become emergency medical technicians or paramedics.

All of the training will be in Alpena County at the different stations. Keogh said one week it may be in Alpena to utilize the training building that is a mock apartment used for search and rescue training, or the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center for hazardous materials training. He said there will be training in Green Township because it has an airboat for special team rescues on water and thin ice.

Keogh said it also gives the students an opportunity to learn more about each department and see what they excel in.

People who are interested in attending the academy can reach out to their local fire chief or contact Keogh directly at the Alpena Fire Department. He said there is no cost other than people’s time and required equipment and personal protection gear will be provided.

Keogh said this is also a good chance for adults who have considered becoming a firefighter to see if it is right for them.

“It is a good chance for people to dip their toes in the water to see if it is something they want to do or not,” Keogh said.

Steve Schulwitz can be reached at 989-358-5689 or sschulwitz@thealpenanews.com. Follow him on Twitter @ss_alpenanews.com.