The District 1 Volunteer Fire Academy is getting ever closer to the finish line!
This week, they trained on propane fire suppression at the MAAC, gaining hands-on experience controlling and extinguishing fuel-fed fires in rotation after rotation. They also completed their Fire 1 certification testing, a major milestone after months of intense training and practical skill development.
It’s been incredible watching how far this group has come!
#fireacademy #firstrespondertraining #firefighters #firefighter #firefighterlife #maacfirstrespondertrainingcampus #fireacademy #futurefirefighters
We’re honored to be recognized as the nonprofit of the night during the Gary SouthShore RailCats First Responder & Teacher Appreciation Game on May 30th at The Steel Yard!
At the MAAC, supporting first responders goes far beyond one day, it’s at the heart of everything we do. From training and education to strengthening emergency response across our region, we are proud to stand alongside the men and women who serve our communities every single day.
To all first responders and teachers: thank you for your dedication, sacrifice, and impact. We hope you’ll join us for an incredible evening as the RailCats take on the Cleburne Railroaders.
Free admission for first responders and teachers.
Visit and purchase your tickets at https://bit.ly/4uLpq6g
The heat was certainly turned up at the MAAC this morning! Firefighters from the Cook Nuclear Plant were training on putting out propane fires with both gas and liquid propane, yielding some intense flames!
The District 1 Rope Rescue Ops/Tech Certification gives first responders the hands-on skills needed to safely perform high-angle, low-angle, and technical rope rescues in challenging environments. From patient packaging and hauling systems to critical safety procedures, this course prepares responders to operate confidently when lives are on the line.
Hosted by the MAAC Foundation and Indiana Fire & Public Safety Academy, this certification is designed to strengthen rescue capabilities across our region while bringing departments together through advanced, real-world training.
Register for both today, visit https://on.in.gov/D1RopeOpsMay2026 and https://on.in.gov/D1RopeTECHMay2026
We still have a few slots left for this Thursday's Fight Like a Girl women's self-defense class so reserve your spot now! Register: bit.ly/fightlikeagirl26
You will learn:
Situational Awareness
Defensive Stances
Stages of Response
Active Self-Defense Techniques
Scenario-Based Application
Join us at the MAAC Foundation for our upcoming Home Self-Defense Fundamentals class on June 2nd and gain practical knowledge designed to help you better protect yourself, your family, and your home.
Led by experienced law enforcement professionals, this course covers:
• Castle Doctrine & self-defense laws
• Developing a personal home safety plan
• Security systems & strengthening entry points
• Situational awareness & de-escalation
• Safety equipment considerations
• Weapon retention principles and more
Whether you’re new to personal safety planning or looking to strengthen your preparedness, this class provides responsible, practical guidance in a welcoming environment.
Register here: bit.ly/maachomedefense
WATER MAPPING/HOSE HANDLING/FIRE STREAMS SKILLS DAY - DISTRICT 1
Date: October 26, 2025
Time: 8 AM – 4 PM
Location: MAAC – Valparaiso
This one-day course focuses on:
-Hose line selection and deployment
-Advancement techniques and grip options
-Stream application and water mapping principles
A new water mapping prop will be used to demonstrate best practices for today’s fire environment.
Full PPE required.
Register now: https://on.in.gov/HoseStreamsSkillsD1
During National Police Week, we pause to recognize and honor the dedication, sacrifice, and service of the law enforcement officers who protect our communities each and every day.
At the MAAC Foundation, we are proud to support the training and preparedness of these brave men and women. Their commitment to public safety strengthens our communities across Northwest Indiana and beyond.
This week especially, we remember the officers who have given their lives in the line of duty and stand in gratitude with those who continue to serve with courage and professionalism.
#police #policetraining #nationalpoliceweek
Join future EMTs for an exciting day volunteering for the EMT Practical Exam! This Exam helps to assure EMT candidates are ready to care for patients in an emergency and is an important step in the certification process.
Adult and teen volunteers are encouraged to act as "patients" moulage with fake injuries (note: these may include chest wounds.) Other volunteers are needed to serve as runners of important documents to the proctor, or to assist at individual skills stations. Certified EMTs and licensed Paramedics in the state of Indiana are needed to serve as volunteer evaluators.
Register today to volunteer for this important exam, visit bit.ly/maacemtpractical26
This past week, the Volunteer Academy was back at work and got hands-on experience with vehicle extrication training using specialized rescue tools and props we have here at the MAAC!
Students practiced real-world techniques used by firefighters and rescue personnel to gain access to vehicles after serious crashes like removing doors, creating access points, and breaking windows.
Training like this gives students the opportunity to build confidence with the same types of tools they may one day encounter in the field protecting their communities!
#fire #firefightertraining #firstresponder #Firefighters #Firefighter
Our Frontline De-Escalation Class held on July 10, 2026, from 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM will give you real-world tools to handle difficult situations with clarity, professionalism, and control, whether you’re face-to-face or on the phone.
This training is taught by the Hammond Indiana Police Department, bringing you the same proven strategies used by first responders, now tailored for everyday workplace interactions.
This course is perfect for:
• Customer service teams
• Healthcare staff
• Retail associates
• Public-facing professionals
• and many more!
Come as an individual or bring your team and walk away with skills you can use immediately. Register now: bit.ly/frontline-de-escalation
#NorthwestIndiana #ProfessionalDevelopment #DeEscalation #WorkplaceTraining #HammondPD #MAACFoundation #maacfirstrespondertrainingcampus
