Gaston Fire and other departments throughout western Washington County are accepting applications for a Firefighter Recruit Academy beginning February 28 for Gaston residents. The full academy, which includes recruits from other fire districts, starts March 7. All training is free and will be at the Gaston station.

The academy will be conducted on weekends until the middle of May. Graduates of the academy will be certified in general firefighting, CPR, hazardous material assessment, wildland interface and incident command structure. All equipment and supplies are included free.

Some departments, including Gaston, will allow graduates to respond to calls as volunteers immediately upon successful completion of the course.

To apply, contact your local fire department. Application forms for Gaston residents and links to other participating fire departments are available at www.gastonfire.org.

The application deadline for Gaston volunteers is Feb. 23. Deadlines vary in other districts.