Allison Presley, who is also 9 1/2 years old, said this was her first year attending the academy, but she hopes it’s not her last.

“I enjoyed meeting the firefighters and all the new people,” she said. “It gave me something to do that was fun. ... I also liked meeting new people and learning what they do.”

Participants of all ages got the opportunity to see a demonstration of rope rescue techniques and they all actually handled a fire hose.

Many of the participants said one of the highlights of the week was the water war, where participants got a chance to cool off while learning how to handle a fire hose.

“The water wars are the best part,” Guthrie said, adding that he plans to take the program again next year.

Participants praised the academy and the knowledge they gained from attending this year’s activities.

“It was great. You get to learn about so much,” Akurya Evans said. “It’s great stuff and I want to do it again.”

Eleven-year-old Malik Davis said this is his fourth year attending the academy.

“I just enjoy the instructions given during the program, and it also keeps me busy,” Davis said. “The water war is the best, but I enjoy learning and having fun with others.”

Ricky Holder, 11, said he enjoys getting wet.

“I got a chance to hold fire in my hand,” Holder said referring to a fire excerise where participants learned the dangers of fire. “I learned not to play with fire and once you are out of the fire, stay out. I also learned that when you are in a car, wear a seatbelt.”

Bunch said the academy is a way to educate young people while allowing them to have fun.

“They really enjoy it,” Bunch said. “It’s a fun way to educate children about things they need to know. ... We just let them know that there’s a fun side to what we do. So, they have fun while they learn.”

The week climaxed Friday with a special graduation program at the Laurel Train Depot, where participants received certificates and gifts.

Lisa Valadia with the Mississippi Department of Transportation conducted a vehicle rollover simulator designed to educate people on the importance of wearing seatbelts.