Recruits Begin 2019 Santa Monica Fire Academy

February 13, 2019 1:30 PM
by Sean VanSluis

The Santa Monica Fire Department’s first academy of 2019 started on January 22, with 11 new recruits. The 17-week program consists of both manipulative and practical instruction in the general areas of firefighting, emergency medical services, hazardous materials, and urban search and rescue.

The department's state-accredited academy also delivers certifications in Firefighter Survival, Live Fire, Hazardous Materials, Wild land Fire behavior, and Driving Fire Apparatus.

Recruits typically begin their day at 06:00 with training instructors doing physical fitness. After their physical fitness routine is complete, they will line up for uniform inspections and attend classroom lecture. Most days are rigorous, with recruits training in full firefighting gear while performing various firefighting evolutions until the end of the day, which can be 10 hours long.

The recruits are scheduled to graduate in May 2019.

Learn more about becoming a Santa Monica Firefighter.

Authored By

Sean VanSluis
Battalion Chief