TAMPA, Fla. – Tampa Fire Rescue firefighter recruit class 2020-01 will be sworn in and ready for full duty Friday, September 18 at 9 a.m. The class of 15 men and women began their six-week specialized recruit training August 10 after a months-long delay following the COVID-19 pandemic. Policies and procedures were put in place to keep both recruits and instructors safe while still being able to complete all training requirements.
“Firefighters adjust to the situation,” said Tampa Fire Chief Nick LoCicero.
“The pandemic has affected how we do everything, and training new hires was no different. I’m proud of our training staff who were able to get these firefighters ready to serve the people of Tampa.”
Typically, firefighter recruit class graduations involve a large ceremony attended by friends and family during which each recruit will have their new badge pinned on their chest. But due to distancing requirements, the ceremony will be held in City Council chambers and closed to visitors. Families and friends will still be able to witness the ceremony live via the Tampa Fire Rescue Facebook page.
Members of this recruit class include those who have family members who have served and are currently serving with Tampa Fire Rescue, as well as former Tampa Bay Lightning player Nikita Alekseev.
Details:
WHAT: Tampa Fire Rescue Recruit Class 2020-01 graduation and swearing-in ceremony
WHO: Mayor Jane Castor, Fire Chief Nick LoCicero, Tampa City Clerk Shirley Foxx-Knowles, Recruit Class 2020-01
WHERE: Tampa City Council chambers (closed). Broadcast on Facebook live at www.facebook.com/firerescuetampa
WHEN: Friday, September 18 at 9 a.m.