Fire Citizens Academy

The first inaugural Citizens Academy took place in the fall of 2022 with the Johnston-Grimes Metropolitan Fire Department and Johnston Police Department. The Academy focused on educating participants about police officers' and firefighters' roles within our governmental operations. 

The Academy certainly increased awareness and participants could see firsthand the mental, physical and emotional aspects required to perform the job. The 10-week Academy is a series of professionally-led workshop sessions designed to familiarize residents with the City of Johnston and the services it provides. 


During the 10-week Academy, participants were instructed on topics related to the following.

  • Administration 
  • Fire Operations within the Department
  • Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
  • Smoke Trailer
  • Using Extrication Equipment – Spreaders, Cutters and Cribbing
  • Forcible Door Entry
  • Special Operations
  • Operating Fire Hoses 
  • Hands-On Demonstrations
  • Protective Clothing and SCBA
  • Calls for Service and Emergency Response 

The next Academy class dates will be shared in 2023. Information will be shared on the police and fire department's social media channels and on the city website.

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Frequently asked questions

Who can attend?
The Police Academy is open to Johnston residents 18 years of age and older. The Fire Academy is open to Johnston and Grimes residents age 18 and older. Academy sessions are free.

Date and location?
The Academy sessions are held on Thursday evenings at the Johnston Public Safety Building. Times and dates for class two have not yet been announced. 

When can I apply? 
Applications will open in the spring of 2023 for the fire class and in the summer of 2023 for the police class. 

What’s earned at the conclusion?
Participants receive a certificate upon completion of the Academy. They also walk away with a wealth of knowledge about the departments and can answer basic questions from community members. 

What will the classes be like? 
The classes are comprised of 6-8  sessions, which last two to three hours. The course covers different operations including: Use of Force, Crime Scene Investigations, Community Policing, Fire Operations, Firefighting tactics and physical demands to ensure participants receive the full experience of what it takes to become a member of the Johnston Police or Johnston-Grimes Fire Departments. 

Will the fire and police Academy be combined?
No. The second class sessions will be divided into police and fire sessions separately. Participants can apply to enter the Academy depending on their level of interest. 

Will I be required to perform functions or have obligations to the departments as a result of attending the Citizens Academy? 
Not at all. The Citizens Academy was formed to offer interested parties a firsthand look at the day-to-day operations, capabilities and functions of the members within the Johnston Police and Johnston-Grimes Fire Departments. 

Are there accommodations for people with disabilities?
If you require special accommodations, we ask you to communicate those needs to us in advance during the application process, so we can evaluate them on a case-by-case basis. 

Are there any costs associated with the Citizens Academy?
No. The Fire and Police Departments cover the cost of the background check, shirts and any materials needed.

What if I am unable to attend all of the sessions?
We encourage participants to take part in all of the sessions, but we understand untimed events do occur. We would ask that you communicate with the instructors in advance, if you are unable to make it to a session.