Offering students an exciting opportunity to learn what it takes to be a first responder
The Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Foundation's Alan D. Anderson Summer Youth Fire Academy offers students in Hillsborough County an exciting opportunity to learn what it takes to be a first responder. Over two weeks, students will be exposed to careers in firefighting and emergency medicine through hands-on and classroom activities. Are you ready to be a cadet?
Eligibility
Applicants must be high school students or graduating seniors between the ages of 14 and 18. A panel will review applications and make final selections based on class size.
Application
Applications for the 2026 Alan D. Anderson Summer Youth Fire Academy will be accepted from Friday, February 27 through Friday, March 27, at 5 PM This year's academy is Monday June 8, 2026, to Friday June 19, 2026. A mandatory orientation will be held Saturday, May 23, 2026.
Only virtual applications are accepted.
Details
- The academy is a free program, courtesy of the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Foundation
- Materials including uniforms, lunches, snacks, water, and sports drinks are provided each day
- Students are provided uniform shirt, pants, boots, belt, and a hat. These are expected to be clean each day
- Transportation is not provided
- Attendance is mandatory for orientation, all class days, and graduation
Program curriculum
- History of the Fire Service
- Fire Ground Operations
- Hands Only CPR and First Aid
- Use of Firefighting Bunker Gear
- Ropes and Knots
- Fire Behavior
- Ladder Climb
- Water Safety
- Public Education
- Emergency Dispatch
Apply to the 2026 Alan D. Anderson Summer Youth Fire Academy