Cole Brown tries his hand at working the nozzle of a fire hose with an assist from firefighter Brad Pevahouse. | Clif Knight

More than 60 children between the ages of 6 and 12 received a close-up look at Hartselle Fire & Rescue and had the opportunity to participate in several hands-on firefighting drills at the annual Hartselle Youth Fire Academy on July 17.

“These kids are the future of our community,” said Fire Chief Steve Shelton. “When they grow up they will be public officials, teachers, doctors, etc. Hopefully, some of them will decide they want to be career firefighters.”

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“The academy teaches them what to expect from firefighters in the event of a structure fire or medical emergency,” he added. “Our guys are excited about working with kids and teaching them fire safety. This is especially important since we don’t have an ongoing fire safety program to reach kids while they’re in the classroom, unless we’re asked to provide one.”

Sponsored by Hartselle Parks & Recreation Department, the event was staged in Sparkman Park’s picnic area and conducted by the city’s firefighters.