Title
Phoenix Fire Department Academy Overview - Citywide
Description
This report provides an update and overview to the Public Safety and Justice Subcommittee on the Fire Department’s recruit training and academy structure.
THIS ITEM IS FOR INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION.
Report
Summary
This item highlights the Fire Department's recruit training process from pre-academy preparation through the transition to operational roles.
Academy Overview
The Phoenix Fire Department Regional Fire Training Academy is a 60-acre complex that conducts three 16-week classes annually, training recruits in Arizona State Firefighter I and II standards. Each class, ideally comprising 45 recruits, follows a 560-hour standardized curriculum encompassing health and wellness, fireground skills, live fire training, didactic lessons, and specialized training. This comprehensive approach ensures recruits gain the technical expertise, physical resilience, and emotional support necessary for long-term career success.
Training Phases and Curriculum
Recruits begin with a pre-academy phase focused on department culture, fitness, wellness, power tool training, and career development. During the academy, recruits master "Core 7 Skills," including self-contained breathing apparatus usage, ventilation, search and rescue, and advanced training in fire behavior, ladder operations, and live fire scenarios. Classroom sessions cover emergency medical services, hazardous materials, and violent incident management, supplemented by family orientation, driver training, and leadership-focused events. Recruit graduation marks the probationary firefighter phase transition, emphasizing rescue operations, mentorship, and real-world integration.
Commitment to Excellence
Through its rigorous curriculum, hands-on training, and emphasis on wellness and collaboration, the Academy prepares recruits for the demands of firefighting while fostering a culture of safety, excellence, and leadership within the Phoenix Fire Department.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Assistant City Manager Lori Bays and the Fire Department.