Inaugural MFR Citizens Academy class graduates

The inaugural class of the Montgomery Fire/Rescue (MFR) Citizens Academy has graduated, said a recent announcement from the City of Montgomery. 

The announcement stated that the class was established to give "residents, civic leaders, and community partners a clear, firsthand understanding of the department’s day-to-day operations, emergency response capabilities, and life-saving work performed by its firefighters and paramedics."

“This program is about building trust through understanding,” said Mayor Steven Reed. “When residents can see firsthand the level of training, preparation, and commitment our firefighters bring to this work every day, it strengthens confidence in the systems that protect our city. This is another way we are investing in a safer, more informed Montgomery.”

The class involved hands-on demonstrations and interactive sessions on fire prevention, emergency response, and rescue operations.

“This inaugural class represents an important step in opening our doors to the community we serve,” said Fire Chief Russell Collier. “Our goal is to provide clarity about what we do, how we do it, and why it matters. When residents understand our capabilities and the decisions we make in critical moments, it strengthens the partnership between our department and the community.”

The announcement said that the class will be expanded in the future due to a reported interest.