JACKSON'S MILL -- WVU's Fire Extension Director Murrey Loflin says the new fire academy will have four classrooms, something its Morgantown location never had.
"We'll have a much larger facility. We'll be able to offer more classes, a variety of classes to the fire service. And not only the fire service - other first responders like EMS, emergency medical services, law enforcement," said Loflin.
Loflin said more space will allow for better hands-on training opportunities, especially during the winter.
"The indoor facility will give us the opportunity to train during inclement weather. During the winter months we can actually use the apparatus bay for practical training," said Loflin.
Directors say the new fire academy will help recruit more firefighters in the state.
"For adults, I think it will provide an opportunity for folks to come and use this as a great resource," Loflin said.
Weston firefighters say they hope the fire academy will help recruit young firefighters with its Junior Firefighting program, which will be offered in June.
"I believe that program will hopefully create interest in our youth in helping to get new members into the fire service, which we so desperately need," says Michael Young, Chief of the Weston Fire Department.
The Junior Fire Fighting program will be held during the fourth week of June. For more information on the program, contact WVU's Jackson's Mill at 269-5100
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