Interested in learning more about our new South Alberta Fire Rescue Academy program? We have put together a list of frequently asked questions. If you have one that is not currently on our list, please email boydcraven@prrd8.ca.

How much will the program cost?
The cost to participate in the South Alberta Fire Rescue Academy is $2,500 per year.
What certification will my child have at the end of the program? What job opportunities will this prepare them for?

Certifications included as part of SAFR training include:

  • NFPA 1072 Hazmat Awareness and Operations 
  • NFPA 1001 Level I & II Firefighter
  • NFPA 1002 Driver
  • NFPA 1051 Wildland

Students must be 18 years old to write exams. Should a student not be 18 years old upon graduation, accomodations for later dates will be made available.

Completion of the program will make students eligible to become Cypress County volunteer firefighters at the age of 18. Career fire department positions have different minimum requirements, but completion SAFR will be a solid foundation to start your career.

Students will earn a minimum of 14 credits per year towards graduation.

What equipment is included with my academy fees?
Students will have access to operational equipment that Cypress County Emergency Services utilizes. This includes use of the personal turn out, fire kit and incident gear required.   
What does the program schedule look like?
  • 3 blocks each week in a classroom
  • 2 blocks each week at Dunmore/ Bow Island Fire Station
    • Additional training is available on Cypress County training nights at your local response station.
Do I need to attend a Prairie Rose school to participate in the South Alberta Fire Rescue Academy?
Yes, you must attend a Prairie Rose school to be eligible. Acceptance into the program will go to Cypress County or Bow Island/County of Forty Mile residents first, followed by ‘other’ Prairie Rose students and then out of district students who are approved to attend a Prairie Rose school.
Are there any requirements my child must meet in order to qualify for the South Alberta Rescue Academy program?
If accepted into the SAFR Academy program, students will be required to meet the medical requirements of their designated fire department (Bow Island or Cypress County). 
How many students will be in a class? 
There will be a limit of 14 students in the class. If sufficient interest warrants and staffing/space can be accomodated, a second class will be added.
Can students going into grade 12 in the fall also apply to the program? Or is it only open to grade 11 students?
If the student is attending grade 12 next year, they are able to do the first year of the program through Eagle Butte High School or Senator Gershaw School, but would be required to complete their training through Cypress County following graduation.