Gulf Coast Emergency Response Academy

09/11/2025

On this day, 24 years ago. Many of us were at the firehouse, some had just come off shift while others were preparing for the next day, possibly at our "other job". If you are over 35 you probably remember where you were. If you are over 45, you probably remember being glued to a TV all day. The horrific, surreal images that, to this day, seem unthinkable. As emergency responders, we have a tendency to focus on our brave brothers and sisters who perished as heroes. But so many others were affected that day. Every ethnicity, religion, and political belief. They all died as Americans. If you are old enough, you also remember that we bonded together and there was a true sense of pride to be Americans. Let their sacrifices not be in vain. We are all still Americans. Different ethnicity, different religious beliefs, and different political views. God bless the responders, God bless the innocent civilians, God bless all their families and loved ones, and God Bless America!! LET US NEVER FORGET Capt Walt

05/31/2025

These fire blankets have become a new fad item. Please read this advisory. There are still no proven definitive ways to deal with EV battery fires. Stay safe out there!

All- UL’s FSRI along with the Fire Protection Research Foundation, a research affiliate of NFPA, we are issuing a safety advisory around potential hazard involving fire blankets used for electric vehicle fire suppression efforts with battery involvement. Key takeaways: Experiments conducted by bot...

04/07/2025

What a great week of competitive training! We love hosting corporate competitions. These responders train all year for this one week to display their talent and skills and to compete against the best their company has to offer. They did an amazing job. We can't wait to do it all over again next year. Has your company ever thought about conducting a multi-team competition? We can make it happen for you. Keep training and stay safe!!

09/19/2024

We stand down training today to honor our friend and brother, Captain Greg May. 47 years in the fire service as a volunteer and career firefighter. It is not goodbye, we know we will see you again. Rest in Peace brother.

09/16/2024

It is with a heavy heart that we must post the passing of one of our own. Captain Greg May passed away this morning. Although he will be missed terribly, we rejoice because he fought the good fight, he has finished the course and now he will receive his reward. Greg was here from before the beginning. He gave his blood, sweat, knowledge, and experience for the academy. So that all those who enter our academy doors will leave more competent and be more confident in their ability to "Do the job" when the alarm sounds and their fellow workers and friends depend on them most. Rest in Peace my friend. We've got it from here.

09/11/2024

We pause to remember all of those who so bravely gave their life, and all of those who persevered through that terrible time. "Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends" John 15:13. ESV
WE WILL NEVER FORGET!

09/11/2023

It is with saddened hearts that we take time to remember and honor those who lost their lives on that day in 2001. And to remember all of those who are still giving their lives because of their efforts on that massive rescue pile. We salute all who have given so much. God bless you, and God bless your families for generations to come. WE WILL NEVER FORGET!!