Boulder Fire-Rescue Community Academy returns and is open for applications

Boulder Fire-Rescue is accepting applications for its 2026 Community Academy, a multi-session program running April 22–July 17 that offers residents hands-on experience with emergency response, medical care and fire operations.

Boulder Fire-Rescue is accepting applications for its 2026 Community Academy, returning for the first time since 2020. The multi-session program runs April 22–July 17 and offers residents a behind-the-scenes look at how the department serves the community. Sessions are designed to provide hands-on experience with emergency response, emergency medical service, fire operations and community risk reduction. Instruction includes first aid, hands-only CPR, AED use, emergency preparedness and fire extinguisher training. Key details: - Boulder Fire-Rescue is taking applications for the 2026 Community Academy. - The academy runs April 22–July 17 and is open to community members. - Program topics include emergency response, EMS, fire operations and community risk reduction. - Training elements listed include first aid, hands-only CPR, AED use, emergency preparedness and fire extinguisher use. - The last academy was held in 2020 and the department is bringing the program back. - The city notes space is limited and applicants are asked to commit to attending all sessions. Summary: Organizers say the academy aims to build knowledge about fire safety, emergency preparedness and the realities of first response while giving participants time with BFR firefighters. Applications are being accepted online at bldr.fyi/BFRAcademy and the department plans to run the scheduled sessions April 22–July 17.