Goals
The mission of the Fire Factor Academy is to establish a relationship of mutual trust and respect between the University of Illinois, the leaders of U of I’s housing community, and the Champaign and Urbana Fire Departments through education and practical applications.The goal of this Academy is:
- To communicate to students fire risk and fire behavior through lecture and hands-on activities.
- To communicate to students that a mixture of fire, smoke, and every day obstacles are dangerous and can kill.
- To communicate to students that the first and most effective step to fire safety is prevention.
- To lay the foundation for a lasting partnership between all parties.
The Firefactor 15 Academy will be held at Hendrick House, at the intersection of Green Street and Lincoln Avenue, in Urbana. The day will begin with registration, and you will be provided a t-shirt to wear. You’ll meet the firefighters and instructors, and assemble to witness two rooms being set on fire to demonstrate how fast fire grows and how fire sprinklers can control and extinguish a fire. Then you’ll break into small groups for the hands-on activities. There will be snacks and beverages provided to you throughout the afternoon. There will be a short awards and closing ceremony.
The new Academy format takes place in a cleaner environment than previous academies, but you may still get wet and dirty. The focus of the new program is more about everyday fire safety decisions you will make, and less about the experience of firefighters. You will learn how to prevent fires and how to survive a fire in your residence or in a bar or club. Firefighters and instructors will be with you at every station you go through to ensure everything is conducted in a safe manner. Expect to have a fun time and a very educational experience!
If you are not prepared or committed to the mission of this Academy, please allow someone else in your house to attend. Find the best people from your house to participate in this Academy who will communicate their learning experience to the other residents of your home. On the day of attendance, you need to be healthy, sober, and drug-free.
You will need to find transportation to and/or from Hendrick House. The MTD stops near the Hall. Check schedules at Bus Schedule. If you drive, we encourage carpooling to and from the event site. There will be very limited parking available. If you need directions to Hendrick House go to: Map.
If you have any medical conditions that could affect your ability to participate in these activities, if you have special dietary needs or preferences or if you have any questions or concerns pertaining to the Academy, please contact one of the following:
Thank you and we look forward to seeing you at Fire Factor!