08/12/2026
Citizen’s Fire Academy 2026
Have you ever wondered what goes on at the Kingsport Fire Department ?
The 2026 Fall Citizens’ Fire Academy will begin on September 10, 2026 , with weekly sessions held each Thursday evening from 6pm to 8pm for a total of six weeks. The program is open to adults 18 and older who live or work in Kingsport and have an interest in learning more about the Kingsport Fire Department’s public safety and emergency services.
Participants will experience a behind-the-scenes look at the fire department, including:
Fire Station and Engine Tours
Hands-on training with Firefighting equipment
Vehicle Extrication and Search/Rescue demonstrations
Community Risk Reduction, Fire Prevention and Life Safety Education
Live Fire Simulations in a controlled environment
Ride-along opportunities with on-duty crews
The Kingsport Fire Department Citizens’ Fire Academy will culminate with a Graduation Dinner featuring a Fire Fighter Meal. Each participant who completes the Academy will receive a commemorative certificate and a shirt proudly displaying their accomplishment as a Kingsport Fire Department Citizens’ Fire Academy Graduate.
“The Kingsport Fire Department Citizens’ Fire Academy is a great way for residents to engage with their fire department and understand the dedication and training it takes to serve and protect the community,” said Fire Chief Jerry DeBerry. “It also helps build stronger relationships between our firefighters and the citizens we serve.”
Purpose of the Academy
To familiarize you with your Fire Department
To educate you on our services and responsibilities
To educate you on our operations
For you to take what you learn back to the community
For you to learn about Community Risk Reduction
Kingsport Fire Department Citizens’ Fire Academy is a six week class dedicated to increasing public awareness through education, demonstration, and participation by the class members creating a safer home and work environment through fire prevention, extinguishment techniques, and training.
Due to the class size limitations (15) and number of requests, all participant requests may not be granted. Due to the physical nature of some classes, some members may want to consult a physician before participating. Participants must be at least 18 years of age. Participants must complete the Citizens’ Fire Academy request to Participate Form and return it before August 8, 2025. Ride along release forms will be available for completion at the first class session. Participation Forms are available at Station 1 at 130 Island Street, Kingsport, Kingsport’s City Hall Information Desk, and by email at [email protected] or click here: KFD-Citizens-Fire-Academy to download the application
Completed applications can be mailed, faxed or returned by August 8th to:
Kingsport Fire Department,
130 Island St.
Kingsport, TN 37660
Fax: 423-224-2528
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
For more information contact
KFD Citizens’ Fire Academy Coordinator Gene Lady: [email protected]
KFD Public Education Officer Barry Brickey: 423-224-2820 or [email protected]
