The National Volunteer Fire Council has issued a statement of support for the National Fire Academy’s recent decision to decrease the number of Volunteer Incentive Program offerings at its Emmitsburg, Md., campus because of low enrollment. NFA and NVFC have worked closely for years to increase attendance and promote VIP; however for many years classes haven’t been filled to capacity, and in some cases courses were canceled.

“VIP is a fantastic opportunity for firefighters,” said Philip C. Stittleburg, NVFC chairman. “I am in agreement with NFA leadership and hope that this may spark interest in the program.”

The incentive program will drop from four one-week course offerings per year to three. In 2008, NFA will increase the number of week-long classes that are available on the campus from four to 15. Both volunteer and career firefighters are eligible for these courses.

For additional information on VIP course offerings, visit www.usfa.dhs.gov.