Published August 07. 2026 09:34AM
The Upper Macungie Township police, fire and EMS services held a youth Academy the week of July 13-17 at Upper Macungie Township station 56.
Township youth ages 12-16 were welcomed, with some having participated in previous years.
During the week, the participants were introduced to police, fire and EMS operations.
Skilled instructors included police officer, fire department training officers and EMS paramedics and EMTs.
Participants practiced donning turnout gear for firefighting, using portable fire extinguishers, advancing hose lines and working in an elevated aerial truck.
On the police side, they learned about apprehending a suspect, making a traffic stop, interdicting a potential suicide and using Airsoft replica pistols to mimic shooting.
Cetronia EMTs taught the youth how to control bleeding, CPR and the use of automatic external defibrillators and general first aid.
Eighteen Upper Macungie Township youth precipitated in the weeklong program.
As many as twelve police, fire and EMS trainers were on hand throughout the week to ensure the best possible experience for the youth.
PRESS PHOTOS BY LOU WHEELANDInstructors and attendees of the Upper Macungie Township Jr. Academy held the week of July 13-17 at various township facilities stand in front of Engine 57.
Upper Macungie Police resource officer Julia Poapst acts as a belligerent driver when being questioned by Khahyil Smith, acting as a police officer asking for her driver’s license and insurance card at the Upper Macungie Township Jr. Academy. Adrian Russell is her “backup.”
Helen Si uses a hand held “extinguisher” to douse a fire at the Upper Macungie Township Jr. Academy held the week of July 13-17 at various township facilities.
Will it land in the tote? Upper Macungie Township Station 56 firefighter John Ellerman, Jr., watches as Maya Guerra drops a football from Tower 56 at the Upper Macungie Township Jr. Academy. Partner Sam Shadlow and Lt. Karsten Finke hope for the best.
