Fargo, West Fargo Fire Departments to begin joint training academy Monday

(Fargo, ND) -- Recruits from both the Fargo Fire Department and West Fargo Fire Department will begin a ten-week fire academy on Monday.

“The training academy focuses on ensuring new firefighters in both Fargo and West Fargo are equally prepared to join our teams. It has proven extremely beneficial to collaborate with West Fargo throughout this process," said Fargo Fire Chief Steve Dirksen in a statement released to WDAY Radio. "The academy provides an opportunity for the recruits to gain the same knowledge and skills, resulting in mutual aid being more effective during critical metro incidents. This joint academy is a perfect example of what can be accomplished when our communities work together.”

During the course of the academy, recruits will complete classroom work, drills, ride-a-longs and live burn scenarios. In addition, recruits will experience hands-on training in a controlled environment, learning techniques to prepare them for real-life scenarios.

"We are excited to be kicking off the fifth session of the training academy with the Fargo Fire Department,” said West Fargo Fire Chief Dan Fuller. “The continued collaboration helps ensure both departments work together to best serve our neighboring communities, providing excellent service to both West Fargo and Fargo.”

A total of five recruits will be participating in the fifth firefighter academy jointly hosted by the two departments.