High school students interested in firefighting and emergency medical services careers can get hands-on experience at the eighth annual Aims Fire and EMS Xplore Academy.
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High School Students Can Train Like Firefighters at Aims Xplore Academy
February 27, 2025
This immersive, weeklong program runs July 14–18. It offers students the chance to build critical skills while exploring the exciting and demanding world of public safety. The program is on the Aims Windsor Campus at the Public Safety Institute, 1130 Southgate Drive.
Real-World Fire and EMS Training
Throughout the week, participants will train like real firefighters and emergency responders. Students will:
- Master bunker gear and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) techniques.
- Navigate a fire maze inside the state-of-the-art Simulated City training center.
- Tour an aerial ladder truck and climb its 100-foot ladder before rappelling off the burn tower.
- Learn life-saving CPR techniques and complete an exam to earn CPR certification valid for two years in Colorado.
- Gain insight into the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) and complete a modified version of the exam.
- Tour a medical helicopter and ambulance to understand emergency transport procedures.
- Use power tools in a vehicle extrication exercise, learning how to safely stabilize a car and break open doors.
- Train in fire extinguisher use, hose rolling, and door-forcing techniques.
The program culminates in a live demonstration day, where students put their skills to the test in front of family members. This includes live fire simulations and vehicle extrication exercises. The day wraps up with a graduation ceremony recognizing their achievements.
“Xplore Academy prepares young people to meet the demands of serving and protecting the community,” said Heather Logan, EMS Coordinator at Aims Community College. “The program provides an invaluable experience for students to determine if a career in EMS or fire science is right for them.”
Register Today
The registration period is open from March 1 to June 6, or until the program reaches its 40-student capacity. The registration fee is $100, which includes daily lunch and snacks, three t-shirts, and a water bottle. Scholarships are available for eligible students. For more information about Aims Fire Science programs and the Xplore Academy, visit aims.co/Xplore25.
