Academy Policies

Students who apply for admission to Academy courses must be employed by a fire department in a full-time, paid-on-call, or volunteer capacity. They must be covered by that department's insurance. Students will be required to submit a signed hold harmless agreement provided be the Academy before they can participate in any practical exercise.

All instructors and students are required to comply with the Academy's dress code. Students are required to wear navy blue trousers, black boots or shoes, and navy blue T-shirts with their fire department's logo. A collared shirt can be substituted if the student's department provide one. Fire department sweat shirts can be worn if desired. The student's fire department issue hat (baseball type) can be worn if desired. Students that have hair which extends below the collar must secure the hair so that it does not pose a safety problem (pony tail, braided, pinned, etc.) While performing a practical exercise.

No shorts, tank tops, sweat clothes, T-shirts, cut-offs, tongs, or sandals are not allowed in the classroom. In order to prevent the display of offensive attire, clothing containing anything other than the student's fire department logo is prohibited.

Students are required to attend all lecture and practical sessions. Students are expected to show up on time. In the event a student cannot attend a particular date, he/she will have to notify the Lead Instructor or Academy director at (815) 372-4042 or (815) 886-7227 ext. 355.

Students are required to conduct themselves responsibly and professionally at all times. Each student will be held accountable for his/her actions while attending the Academy. Students are expected to pay close attention to the instructors. Paying attention at all times is paramount. Not hearing a portion of the instruction could result in serious injury.

Students will be billed for course registration at the conclusion of the class. Students are to forward the bill to the appropriate agency at their department. If a student is paying the registration from personal finances, a personal check is required within one(1) week of completion of the class. If the student's department is responsible for the fee, all inquires will be made to that department's training officer or fire chief.