State Weekend Program 

Welcome Package

June 2023

Welcome Package

for the National Fire Academy State Weekend Program

Congratulations on your willingness to attend a State Weekend program class at the 

National Fire Academy (NFA). Below is some information about the National Emergency 

Training Center (NETC) that may be useful to you.

This package contains important campus information, including points of contact and 

links to additional information. Whether this is your first time or you previously attended 

courses, we encourage you to review the information as our policies and procedures 

update periodically.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Educational and Training Participant 

Standards of Conduct (FEMA Policy 123-0-2) and FEMA Directive: Personnel Standards of 

Conduct (Directive 123-0-2-1) can be viewed at https://www.usfa.fema.gov/training/nfa/

admissions/student_policies.html. Please review these important documents.

If you have any questions regarding your visit to NETC, please contact our Admissions Office 

and the staff will be glad to assist you. Our Admissions Office may be reached at 301-447-

1035 or at netcadmissions@fema.dhs.gov, Monday to Friday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. ET.

We commend you for your commitment to enhancing your education and wish you great 

success in your professional endeavors.

NETC regulations (44 C.F.R. Part 15 and Policy 119-22, VII.A.8 and VII.A.10) prohibit personal 

possession of alcohol or firearms on campus. If you have alcohol and/or firearms in 

your possession, you must declare them upon entering campus at the Main Gate.

No alcohol can be brought onto campus. Firearms cannot be carried on campus. 

NETC Security will conduct a search of your vehicle and/or luggage. If Officers discover 

undeclared alcohol or firearms, you will be denied access to campus, you will not be 

admitted to your class, and your sponsoring organization will be notified.

Index i

Index

Security ................................................................................................................................. 1

Travel..................................................................................................................................... 2

Campus registration ........................................................................................................... 3

Lodging.................................................................................................................................. 4

Contact information........................................................................................................... 7

Dress code for students ..................................................................................................... 8

Admissions policies............................................................................................................. 9

National Emergency Training Center policies/information........................................... 10

Food service......................................................................................................................... 12

Campus map ........................................................................................................................ 13

Memorials/Monuments on campus ................................................................................. 16

On-campus services............................................................................................................. 18

About Emmitsburg .............................................................................................................. 20
ii National Fire Academy State Weekend Program Welcome Package
Security 1

Security

Due to increased security precautions, students will be required to show photo ID to 

access the campus. PLEASE HAVE THEM WITH YOU, NOT IN YOUR LUGGAGE! Security 

checks will delay your registration at the NETC.

If you are a student from a foreign country, please be prepared to show your passport 

or visa at registration.

FIREARMS: prohibited on campus! Due to heightened security requirements, please 

understand that security and law enforcement personnel may search you, your vehicle 

or your luggage. Maryland law is very narrow in its definition of law enforcement officers 

who may carry firearms. For your own protection, and to expedite your processing into 

the NETC, do not bring weapons of any kind to campus. Weapons include knives with 

blades longer than 3 inches, machetes, bow and arrows, ammunition, rifles, shotguns, 

pistols, etc. If you arrive at NETC with weapons of any kind, your entry to campus may be 

denied.

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES: Alcohol is not allowed on-site and will be confiscated.
2 National Fire Academy State Weekend Program Welcome Package

Travel

You may arrive on campus any time after 2 p.m. the day before your course begins.

ĵ You must depart campus after the end of your course, except for courses with a 

next-day departure date.

ĵ Your vehicle must be registered at Housing/Security for security reasons, even if you 

do not stay on campus.

ĵ If you do not stay on campus and you commute daily, you will be reimbursed mileage 

(government mileage rate) for one round trip — not mileage daily.

ĵ There are no connections for mobile homes or recreational vehicles available at NETC, 

and we ask that you refrain from using these vehicles at our facility.

ĵ There are no electric charging stations on the NETC campus for electric vehicles. You 

will need to go to the closest off-site charging station.

ĵ Student and visitor parking is only available in “J” and “S” lots and overflow parking 

(grassy area beside Building J) when it is open. The parking space lines have been 

painted yellow and are easily identifiable.

Directions to National Emergency Training Center

Physical Address: 16825 South Seton Ave., Emmitsburg, MD 21727

ĵ From Baltimore: I-695 (Baltimore Beltway) to I-70 West (toward Frederick) to Route 

15 North to Emmitsburg. Left turn off Route 15 to South Seton Avenue. Second right 

onto campus (tree-lined drive).

ĵ From Washington: I-495 (Washington Beltway) to I-270 North (toward Frederick) to 

Route 15 North to Emmitsburg. Left turn off Route 15 to South Seton Avenue. Second 

right onto campus (tree-lined drive).

ĵ From Philadelphia and East: Pennsylvania Turnpike West to Harrisburg, Exit 236 

(Route 15). Go South on Route 15 to Emmitsburg. Right turn off Route 15 to South 

Seton Avenue. Second right onto campus (tree-lined drive).

ĵ From Pittsburgh and West: Pennsylvania Turnpike East to Harrisburg, Exit 236 (Route 

15). Go South on Route 15 to Emmitsburg. Right turn off Route 15 to South Seton 

Avenue. Second right onto campus (tree-lined drive).
Campus registration 3

Campus registration

Check-in time

Check-in time is 2 p.m. on the day of travel. The front desk is available 24/7. If you will be 

arriving the day the course begins, it is recommended that you arrive no later than one 

hour prior to the suggested class time to allow time for registration.

In order to minimize the COVID-19 risk at check-in, students will receive the following 

information in a packet form. Check-in time should only take a matter of seconds. Please 

remember to practice social distancing in Building C Lobby.

Students will receive the following information in a packet form:

ĵ Classroom location and start time with campus map on reverse.

ĵ Student badge.

ĵ Parking permit paper clipped to parking permit handout (if students drove to campus).

ĵ NETC Facility Information Sheet.

Checkout time

Checkout time is 8 a.m. Please return your key card to the front desk. Your dorm room 

key will be deactivated by 8 a.m. on the day of departure.

Class, dormitory and vehicle registration will take place in Building C Lobby.

Since you may have to walk some distance to your room, we recommend you bring 

luggage with wheels.
4 National Fire Academy State Weekend Program Welcome Package

Lodging

Dormitory buildings

Dormitory buildings on the NETC campus are A, C, D, F and L. A campus map is attached 

so you can view the proximity of dormitory buildings to the classroom buildings, dining 

facility, NETC Library, Student Center, etc. All buildings are within walking distance. There 

is no shuttle service between the buildings.

If you stay on campus, you must purchase a meal ticket. If you do not purchase a meal 

ticket, you will be asked to vacate your room. You will be responsible for your 

off-campus lodging costs.

Lodging reservation

Once you are accepted into a course, a room on the NETC campus will be reserved for 

you. If lodging on the NETC campus is not needed, you must notify the Housing Office in 

writing at fema-netc-housing@fema.dhs.gov.

ĵ Room assignments are random. You may or may not be lodged in the same building 

as your classmates.

ĵ No special requests will be granted.

ĵ Disabilities/special accommodations: If an individual marks “yes” for disabilities/special 

accommodations (“Do you have any disabilities (including special allergies or medical 

disabilities) which would require special assistance during your attendance in training?”), 

the student will be contacted by the NETC Admissions Specialist. Depending on the 

accommodation requested, the applicant may have to provide written documentation, 

on a physician’s letterhead, stating the accommodation. The accommodation requested 

will be reviewed, and if it includes a classroom accommodation, the course manager 

will be notified. NETC will try to accommodate special requests; however, there are 

some limitations.
Lodging 5

Each time an applicant applies for a course at NETC, he or she should mark “yes” in the 

disabilities/special accommodations question if the special accommodation is needed. If 

the accommodation(s) is no longer needed, the applicant should mark “no.” If this is the 

case, the applicant would be contacted by an NETC admissions staff member to ensure 

that the previous accommodation is no longer needed.

Most buildings on the NETC campus have elevators and access ramps for wheelchair/ 

powerchair access. NETC does have a limited number of handicap-accessible dormitory 

rooms equipped with handrails in the shower. Please be specific if you require a roll-in 

shower in your dormitory room.

NETC has the following items available for individuals who may need assistance. If you 

require either of the following, please be sure to annotate that on your application or 

advise the admissions staff member when you are contacted:

ĵ Americans with Disabilities Act kits for the hearing impaired. (Kits include alarm clock, 

door knock signaling device, telephone signaling device, text telephone, telephone 

amplifier, and bed shaker.)

ĵ Job Access with Speech ( JAWS) for Windows software for the vision impaired.

As listed in the “amenities” section of this NETC Welcome Package, a refrigerator and 

microwave are available in each dormitory room.

If your special accommodation is strictly food-/dietary-related, you should contact 

the NETC Food Service Contractor at 301-447-1551.

ĵ Foreign students: You are responsible for your own travel and per diem costs and lodging 

(currently $40 per night), payable upon arrival to NETC. The U.S. Fire Administration 

(USFA) accepts credit card payments (Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express) 

for lodging.

Staying off campus

If you choose to stay off campus, it will be at your own expense. You are required to 

purchase a break ticket from the food service contractor for the length of your class.

Amenities in each dormitory room

ĵ Private bathroom.

ĵ TV and clock radio.

ĵ Refrigerator.

ĵ Microwave.

ĵ Iron/Ironing board.

ĵ Hair dryer.

ĵ Twin bed, linens and towels. Each room comes furnished with bath and bed linens. Bath 

linens include washcloth, hand towel, body towel and bathmat. The NETC offers a green 

program for bath linens as noted on each bathroom mirror. Bed linens include pillowcase, 

sheets, blanket and bedspread. All mattresses and pillows have encasements to assist 

with bedbug prevention. Bed linens are only handled and changed by housekeeping after 

checking out and each Friday when staying over into the following week for a course.
6 National Fire Academy State Weekend Program Welcome Package

ĵ Telephone with voicemail.

ĵ FEMA Wi-Fi is available in all dorms. The password is provided upon check-in 

and is available on Channel 59 on the campus TV.

ĵ Some courses require students to bring reports or projects to be shared with the class. 

It is convenient to bring that information in an electronic format. NETC can support 

CD-ROM and Universal Serial Bus (USB) devices. USB devices will be scanned before 

being allowed to connect to government equipment.

ĵ No one may connect personal computer devices to FEMA’s computer equipment at 

any time, including thumb drives, USB peripherals, etc. You must contact the course 

manager and classroom information technology (IT) technician for guidance and 

assistance with these issues. No one may connect personal computer equipment, 

including laptops, to the FEMA network.

ĵ Rooms are not equipped with any types of toiletries. You should bring toiletries with 

you. There is a small convenience store on campus with such items.

Additional costs that you may incur during your stay

ĵ Laundry and vending machines.

ĵ Dry cleaner costs.

ĵ Recreation Association pass ($2) — allows use of all recreation facilities and the 

Command Post Pub. (See the National Emergency Training Center Recreation Association 

section under “National Emergency Training Center Policies/Information.”) (Not available 

under NETC COVID-19 restrictions.).

Laundry facilities

There are coin-operated washers and dryers in each lodging building (change available at 

the convenience store on campus).

You may purchase laundry supplies at the convenience store on campus.

Visitors to lodging rooms on campus

ĵ Only the assigned NETC student is allowed in the dormitory room. Relatives or friends 

are not allowed in the rooms and cannot be lodged on campus. Upon request, the NETC 

Housing Office will provide information regarding local off-campus accommodations; 

however, you are responsible for arranging and paying for those accommodations.

ĵ Animals are not allowed in campus housing, except for guide/service animals. Please 

notify the Admissions Office at least two weeks in advance if you will be bringing a 

guide/service animal. The service animal must be in the student’s presence at all times. 

The animal cannot be left in the dormitory room unattended.
Contact information 7

Contact information

You may receive phone calls in your dormitory room. The caller may dial your direct 

extension 301-447-xxxx. If requested, you will be provided with your extension at check-in. 

Numbers are not given to anyone else.

ĵ For nonemergency situations, the caller may dial 301-447-1048. The Student Services 

Coordinator will transfer the call to your room.

ĵ NETC will NOT accept personal telephone calls to students from the 800 number. 

Family members should dial 301-447-1000 to contact a student.

ĵ You may NOT accept collect calls. Accepting collect calls may restrict you from attending 

future NFA courses.

Emergency calls

ĵ The caller should state that the call is an emergency.

ĵ The message will be delivered to you immediately unless you are not on campus.

ĵ If you must return home due to an emergency, check out with the Housing Office in 

Building C before you depart the campus!
8 National Fire Academy State Weekend Program Welcome Package

Dress code for students

It is each student’s responsibility to use good judgment in selecting attire that projects 

a professional image and is appropriate for both climate differences and classroom 

activities. The NFA Superintendent has the authority to make a determination that 

a student’s attire is inappropriate. Students wearing attire that is determined to be 

inappropriate will be required to change into more appropriate clothing before being 

allowed to continue class.

In routine classroom settings, appropriate business casual attire includes:

ĵ Slacks or khakis (below the calf or longer).

ĵ Suits, coats or blazers.

ĵ Skirts/Dresses — must be no shorter than 3 inches above the knee.

ĵ Shirts with collars; polo shirts.

ĵ Jeans (newer, dress or fashion type without rips or tears).

ĵ Capri pants.

ĵ Turtlenecks, sweaters.

ĵ Blouses — no backless or low-cut (sleeveless blouses must have 3-4 inches of material 

covering the shoulder).

ĵ Dresses — no backless or low-cut (sleeveless dresses must have 3-4 inches of material 

covering the shoulder).

ĵ Dress or casual shoes, open-toed shoes.

ĵ Denim skirts, dresses or shirts.

Inappropriate attire for the classroom:

ĵ Shorts.

ĵ Tank tops.

ĵ Overalls.

ĵ T-shirts with slogans and/or without sleeves.

ĵ Flip-flops, thongs.

Shorts, tank tops, ball caps, etc., are not permitted in the classrooms or the auditorium. 

Bathing suits/trunks are not permitted outside the pool area. Miniskirts and bare midriffs 

are not acceptable. Jeans and T-shirts are not appropriate classroom attire.
Admissions policies 9

Admissions policies

Attendance

ĵ You are required to attend all sessions of the course. If you do not, you may not 

receive a certificate.

ĵ Any student needing to depart campus early and miss any portion of the course 

must make the request in writing to the Course Manager or Training Specialist. The 

Training Specialist, in collaboration with the Superintendent, may waive the attendance 

requirement in order to accommodate the student with extraordinary circumstances 

as long as the student completes all course requirements.

Substitutions

ĵ Substitutions for NFA courses are made from waitlists; slots do not belong to the 

departments.

ĵ All requests to consider an equally qualified person must be in writing and be 

accompanied by a completed General Admissions Application (FEMA Form 119-25-1). 

Applicants may be placed in the course on a space available basis or may be placed 

on the waitlist.

Cancellation or no-shows

NFA’s mission for delivery of courses is impaired significantly by cancellations and 

no-shows. It is very difficult and costly to recruit students at the last minute. Currently 

there is a two-year ban on student attendance for students who are no-shows or cancel 

within 30 days of the course start date without a valid reason.
10 National Fire Academy State Weekend Program Welcome Package

National Emergency Training Center 

policies/information

Conduct

ĵ Federal regulations (available at the NETC Library).

ĵ FEMA and NETC instructions (available at Building C Lobby and dormitory rooms).

Smoking

ĵ All buildings on campus are NONSMOKING to include smokeless tobacco and smokeless 

electronic vaporizers (e-cigarettes).

ĵ If you smoke in your room, you will be asked to leave campus, and be charged to clean 

the room.

Medical services

ĵ All medical expenses are your responsibility.

ĵ Local hospitals accept medical insurance identification, cash, check, or major credit card.

ĵ If you do not have proof of insurance, expect that payment may be a prerequisite to 

possible treatment.

ĵ International students should be prepared to pay for medical services in the event 

that the hospital or provider does not accept foreign insurance coverage.

National Emergency Training Center Library

Located in Building N, the NETC Library provides current information and resources on 

fire and emergency management subjects. With its collection of more than 100,000 books, 

reports, periodicals and audiovisual materials, the NETC Library facilitates and supports 

student and faculty research and supplements classroom lectures and course materials. 

While classes are in session, the schedule of hours for the NETC Library is as follows:

Monday to Thursday: ........ 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Friday: .................................. 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday: ............................. 4 to 8 p.m.

Sunday: ................................ Noon to 4 p.m.

Telephones

ĵ Outgoing calls can be placed from your lodging room via calling card, collect or thirdparty billing.

ĵ You are not allowed to accept collect calls on campus phones. Any and all expenses 

related to phone use shall remain your responsibility.
National Emergency Training Center policies/information 11

Faxes

ĵ Fax services are available at the O’Leary’s Emporium convenience store for a fee.

ĵ You may receive course-related fax messages in the Housing Office at 301-447-1324. All 

other fax messages (personal or work-related) over four pages will not be forwarded 

by Housing. Please use the fax service available at the convenience store or have it 

sent by overnight mail.

Important numbers

If you have any questions, you may call us at either 800-238-3358 or 301-447-1000. When 

you reach the operator, ask for the appropriate extension.

Housing/Transportation: x1048/1113

Admissions: NFA x1524/1290/7209

Food Service (Guest Services): x1551

Security: x1111

Security (TTY/TDD): x1182 

You may send an email to:

Housing/Transportation: fema-netc-housing@fema.dhs.gov

Admissions: netcadmissions@fema.dhs.gov

Food Service: FEMA-netccafeteria@fema.dhs.gov

Security: security-netc@fema.dhs.gov

If you need to fax information to any of the following offices, please note the following 

fax numbers:

Housing/Transportation: 301-447-1324

Admissions: 301-447-1570

Food Service: 301-447-6944

U.S. Fire Administration gets social!

Follow us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/usfire) and Twitter (http://twitter.com/

usfire).
12 National Fire Academy State Weekend Program Welcome Package

Food service

The NETC food services contractor is Guest Services and may be contacted by phone at 

301-447-1551 or email at FEMA-netccafeteria@fema.dhs.gov. If needed, Guest Services’ 

federal tax ID number is 53-0164700.

ĵ If you stay on campus for more than one night, you must purchase a meal ticket. If you 

do not purchase a meal ticket, you will be asked to vacate your room on campus. 

You will then be responsible for your off-campus lodging costs.

ĵ If you do NOT stay in a dorm room on the NETC campus, you must purchase the daily 

break ticket.

ĵ Meal ticket prices are subject to change and will be updated in this package as the 

changes are provided.

ĵ If you are on a special diet for medical reasons, please email the food service contractor 

at least two weeks prior to your arrival at NETC. The food service contractor will make 

arrangements to meet your dietary needs. If you don’t make arrangements prior to 

your arrival, you will be responsible for purchasing the normal meal ticket.

Cafeteria/dining hall hours of operation 

Breakfast: Monday-Friday................... 6:30–8:30 a.m.

Saturday and Sunday........ 6:30–9:30 a.m.

Lunch: Monday-Sunday................. 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Dinner: Monday-Saturday .............. 5:00-7:30 p.m.

Sunday ................................ 5:30-9:30 p.m.
Campus map 13

A

B

C

D

G

H

N

M O

K

T

V

V1

S

J

Q

I

U

L

R P

E

F

South Seton Ave To U.S. 15 To Emmitsburg Business Rt. 15

Building P

(Log Cabin)

Staff Offices

Burn Buildings

Barn

Vehicle Registration, 

Visitor Information, 

Badging

Registration

Dorms

Dorms

9/11 

Memorial

Statues

National Fallen 

Firefighters 

Memorial

Swimming 

Pool

Gym,

Weight

Room

Memorial

Visitor 

Parking

Road Blocked

NFA Classrooms 

and Staff Offices

J-Auditorium

E-Auditorium

Admissions Office, 

Warehouse/Mailroom

Civil Defense 

Monument

Basketball Court, 

Tennis Court

Library,

Publications 

Center

Dining Hall

EMI Classrooms

IEMC 

Classrooms

Simulation 

Lab

Security

National Fallen 

Firefighters 

Foundation Offices

Dorms O’Leary’s Emporium

Dorms

Dorms

Pub, Student 

Center

Medical Office C-175

Building P

(Log Cabin)

Log

Cabin

Tom’s Creek

Contract 

Staff,

Visitors

and Student 

Parking

Staff Parking 

Area

Staff and Government 

Vehicle Parking

Important Phone Numbers

Security:............................ 1111

Emergency:.........................911

Transportation Request:... 1113

Dining Hall: .......................1551

Maintenance: ...................1500

NETC Library: ...................1030

Computer 

Help Desk: ........................1575

Photo ID required at all times.
14 National Fire Academy State Weekend Program Welcome Package

National Emergency Training Center

St. Joseph College was purchased by FEMA in 1979 to serve as a training facility. Prior to 

its official closing in 1973, the college served as a four-year liberal arts college for women. 

In 1981, the facility was entered into the federal records as the NETC. The NETC houses 

the USFA (which includes the NFA), the Emergency Management Institute (EMI) and the 

Field Acquisitions Section. The following is a brief description of the buildings identified 

on the map.

ĵ The Fallen Firefighters Memorial was dedicated on Oct. 4, 1981, and on October 1990 

Congress designated it as the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial. It is a memorial 

to firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty.

ĵ Building A — A three-story residence hall built in 1964 and renovated in 1996. It has 

96 dormitory rooms. (I)

ĵ Building B — The Student Center, built in 1956, is the location of a game room, pub 

and recreational activities. A large picture window overlooks the scenic Catoctin 

Mountain range. (F)

ĵ Building C — Built in 1956 and renovated in 1995, it has 216 dormitory rooms. (F)

ĵ Building D — Built in 1926 and renovated in 1965 and 1995, it is a three-story brick 

structure that has the charm of the old architecture. It consists of 39 dormitory rooms 

with offices and a convenience shop in the basement. (G)(I)

ĵ Building E — Built in 1926 and renovated in 1966 and 1993, it is occupied by the EMI, 

National Fire Programs, NETC Budget offices, and computer support personnel. (F)

ĵ Building F — Built in 1925 and renovated in 1965 and 1995, it has 45 dormitory rooms. (G)(I)

ĵ Building G — Built in 1948 and renovated in 1984 and 2001 to accommodate USFA 

Offices and Programs. (G)

ĵ Building H — Built in 1923 and renovated in 1993, it houses the National Fire Academy 

offices, a fully equipped Gymnasium, weight room and an indoor pool. (F)

ĵ Building I — Built in 1996, it serves as the Material Receipt and Distribution Center, 

Maintenance Facility, Management Operations and Support Services Division, Admissions 

Office, and O&M Support Offices. (F)

ĵ Building J — Built in 1966, renovated in 1993, it is the NFA classroom facility and houses 

the NFA staff. It includes a lobby and a tiered 249-seat auditorium. (F)

ĵ Building K — Built circa 1870, renovated in 1982, 1993 and 2015, it houses EMI classrooms. 

The three-story brick structure also contains a Dining Hall capable of seating 500 people, 

Independent Study in basement, and EMI classrooms on second and third floors. (F)

ĵ Building L — Built in 1959, renovated in 1993, it consists of 37 dormitory rooms and 

a conference room. (I)

ĵ Building M — Built in 1965, renovated in 1989, it houses two EMI classrooms and the 

EMI Computer Lab. (F)

Handicapped Access: F — Fully Accessible; I — Accessible 1st Floor Only; N — Not Accessible; 

G — Ground Floor Accessible Only; R — Restrooms Not Accessible
Campus map 15

ĵ Building N — Designed by the English-born architect, E.G. Lind (1829-1909), it was built 

in 1870 and renovated in 1987, 1992 and 2001. The building is an example of Second 

Empire Style that was popular in the second half of the 19th century. As such, it is listed 

on the National Register of Historic Buildings. It houses the USFA, the NETC Library, 

the USFA Publications Center, and the EMI administrative offices. (F)

ĵ Building O — Erected in 1839 as a chapel. The marble, alabaster altars and stained 

glass windows were retained when it was renovated in 1965. It was renovated again 

in 2006. The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation offices are located in the chapel. 

Support offices are in the basement. (I)

ĵ Building P — The Log Cabin, which was built in 1935, serves as a recreational facility 

overlooking peaceful Tom’s Creek. (F)

ĵ Building Q — The Brick Barn is a service building. The ornamental brick grill windows 

are characteristic of the early 19th century Western Maryland construction. (F)

ĵ Building R — Built in 1948, renovated in 1993, located behind Building G, it previously 

served as USFA offices. (F)

ĵ Building S — Renovated in 2001 to house the NETC Joint Exercise and Simulation Lab 

by the NFA and EMI. (F)

ĵ Building T — The old Milk House of the original St. Joseph’s campus, it houses 

Administrative Support Offices.

ĵ Building U — A burn building complex used by the NFA for arson investigation and 

demonstration. (F)

ĵ Building V — Built in 1992, it houses the Security Office. (F)

Handicapped Access: F — Fully Accessible; I — Accessible 1st Floor Only; N — Not Accessible; 

G — Ground Floor Accessible Only; R — Restrooms Not Accessible
16 National Fire Academy State Weekend Program Welcome Package

Memorials/Monuments on campus

The National Civil Defense/Emergency Management Monument

On Nov. 13, 1999, President Clinton signed a bill (HR 348/PL 106-103) that granted authority 

to the National Civil Defense Monument Commission to construct a monument at the 

NETC in Emmitsburg, Maryland.

The purpose of the monument is to honor the thousands of civil defense and emergency 

management professionals and volunteers who have worked hard and faithfully to 

protect the public from both man-made and natural hazards. This monument particularly 

recognizes the numerous military and civilian volunteers and professionals who have 

gone beyond the normal call of duty to save lives and alleviate suffering in times of crises. 

The monument serves as an enduring reminder of the heartfelt thanks that a multitude 

of people feel whenever they remember those who have selflessly served them or their 

loved ones in times of great need.

The centerpiece of the monument is a 15-ton block of polished white Vermont granite, 

shaped as a three-sided pyramid, representative of the federal, state and local 

governments and their efforts in working together to accomplish a joint mission. The 

triangular base is 5 feet on each side, rising to 15 feet in height. The pinnacle of the 

monument is capped with a large, bronze American eagle, sculpted by the worldrenowned sculptor, Lorenzo Ghiglieri. The base is encircled by a stone and concrete plaza 

with appropriately inscribed bronze state plaques embedded in concrete, surrounded by 

a circle of state flags. A brick wall rises approximately 3 feet in height on the back or south 

side of the plaza. Near the edge of the plaza are two bronze plaques bearing the names 

of advocates and members of the Monument Commission.

The monument was dedicated on April 6, 2002. The Monument Commission plans to 

hold an annual memorial service to pay tribute to those who have given to their fellow 

citizens by mitigating the potential losses from emergency situations, for those who have 

responded to emergencies, and to the professionals and our elected officials who strive 

to improve the methods of handling emergencies.
Memorials/Monuments on campus 17

National Fallen Firefighters Memorial/National Fallen Firefighters 

Foundation

Since 1981, the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial, located on the campus of the NFA, 

has stood as the national symbol of honor to America’s firefighters. In 1990, the U.S. 

Congress designated the monument as the “official national memorial to volunteer and 

career firefighters who die in the line of duty.”

The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) was created by Congress to lead a 

nationwide effort to honor America’s fallen firefighters. Since 1992, the nonprofit NFFF has 

developed and expanded programs that fulfill that mandate. The mission is to honor and 

remember America’s fallen fire heroes and to provide resources to assist their survivors 

in rebuilding their lives.

Each October, the NFFF sponsors the official national tribute to all firefighters who died in 

the line of duty during the previous year. Thousands attend the weekend activities held 

at the NFA. The weekend features special programs for survivors and co-workers along 

with moving public ceremonies.

To Lift A Nation (The 9/11 National Memorial)

In 2007, the “To Lift a Nation” statue created by sculptor Stan Watts was added to the 

National Memorial Park. This 40-foot tall bronze monument was created to honor the 

heroes of Sept. 11, 2001. The three-times life-size statue recreates the now-famous photo 

taken by Thomas E. Franklin, a photographer for the Bergen Record, who captured the 

image of three firefighters raising the American flag at Ground Zero. “The monument and 

its flag are symbols of hope and courage for a nation deeply impacted by this tragedy,” 

Watts said. “It honors a moment in the history of our country and reminds us of the 

bravery and sacrifice made by our firefighters and by thousands of citizens, from all walks 

of life, who selflessly serve humankind in times of need.” The monument stands 40 feet 

high, 6 feet deep, and 8 feet wide. Each of the three firefighter statues weighs more than 

5,000 pounds and was formed from approximately 160 bronze sections weighing between 

60 to 80 pounds each.

National Fallen Firefighters Foundation hours and contact information

NFFF business hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Please take time 

to visit the recently renovated Memorial Chapel. Learn about the programs regarding the 

NFFF and the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend by tuning to Channel 23 on 

the campus television system.

National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

P.O. Drawer 498 

Emmitsburg, MD 21727

www.firehero.org

Phone: 301-447-1365

Fax: 301-447-1645
18 National Fire Academy State Weekend Program Welcome Package

On-campus services

The U.S. Fire Administration Publications Center

Firefighters and other first responders face a continually growing number of job 

responsibilities and hazards. In an effort to assist fire and emergency services 

departments in meeting these responsibilities and protecting personnel, the USFA’s 

Publications Center provides information resources in many formats, including books, 

technical reports, kits and DVDs, free of charge (quantity restrictions apply).

USFA also provides fire safety education program materials for fire departments, 

addressing such subjects as smoke alarm maintenance, residential fire sprinklers, home 

fire prevention, and the increased risk of deaths and injuries to children, senior citizens, 

and people with disabilities.

You may order publications in the following ways:

ĵ Web: https://apps.usfa.fema.gov/publications/

ĵ Telephone: 1-800-561-3356 or 301-447-1189

(7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST/EDT)

ĵ Fax: 301-447-1213

ĵ Mail: U.S. Fire Administration 

Publications Center 

Building N, Room 216 

16825 South Seton Ave.

Emmitsburg, MD 21727

The majority of our publications may be downloaded from our website and reproduced 

locally if additional copies are required. Digital artwork to facilitate reproduction of public 

education materials at the local level is available upon request at the Publications Center.

While on campus, please feel free to stop by the Publications Center located in Building N, 

Room 216.
On-campus services 19

O’Leary’s Emporium

Forget to bring something along with you? O’Leary’s Emporium is located in Building D 

Basement and has a variety of toiletries, souvenirs, etc., available for purchase. You’ll 

find firefighter memorabilia, gifts, patches, pins, and embroidered and printed authentic 

apparel. O’Leary’s also offers a variety of services (i.e., rental cars, faxing, UPS and U.S. 

Postal Service mailing (no FedEx)). O’Leary’s hours of operation are as follows:

Monday to Thursday: ... 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Friday: ............................. 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Saturday: ........................ 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Sunday: ........................... Noon to 9 p.m.

State Weekends — extended hours. Please check with the store.

ĵ Contact information: O’Leary’s Emporium

P.O. Box 479 

Emmitsburg, MD 21727

ĵ Email: olearysnfa@aol.com

ĵ On-campus extension: 1493

ĵ Phone number: 301-447-2795

ĵ Fax number: 301-447-2799

There is an ATM located across the hallway from O’Leary’s.
20 National Fire Academy State Weekend Program Welcome Package

About Emmitsburg

Emmitsburg, Maryland, was founded in 1785, is located in Frederick County and is a 

relatively small community. Emmitsburg is home to the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth 

Ann Seton, Mount Saint Mary’s University and NETC. The NETC campus, which was the 

former St. Joseph College, is home to the USFA’s NFA and the EMI. You will also find the 

National Fallen Firefighters Memorial and the National Civil Defense Monument on the 

NETC campus.

The following businesses are located in Emmitsburg and the surrounding area. Most 

Emmitsburg businesses are within walking distance.

Name Location Phone

Automobile repairs and services

East Park Automotive 1 Creamery Way, Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-3560

Quality Tire and Auto 17650 Creamery Road, Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-2909

Spike’s Auto Care and Tire 17307 North Seton Ave., Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-4734

Banks

ATM on campus in Building D across from 

O’Leary’s Emporium

PNC Bank 8 East Main St., Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-6134

Barber/beauty shops

Emmitsburg Family 

Barbershop

19 East Main St., Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-3660

My Father’s Footsteps 121 North Seton Ave., Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-6600

The Total Look 302 West Main St., Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-2541

Library

Emmitsburg Public Library 300 South Seton Ave., Emmitsburg, MD 301-600-6329

Lodging

Sleep Inn 501 Silo Hill Road, Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-0044

Stonehurst Bed and 

Breakfast

9436 Waynesboro Pike, Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-2880

Medical Facilities

Chiropractor

Center of Life Chiropractic 

Center

56 Water St., Thurmont, MD 301-271-2711

Dentists

Boliarinwa, Olumibe 

“Dr. Olu”

101 South Seton Ave., Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-6662

Catoctin Dental 10 Water St., Thurmont, MD 301-271-2811

Hargadon, Michael 9 East Main St., Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-3585

Thurmont Smiles 100 South Center St., Thurmont, MD 301-271-4400

Hospitals and urgent care

Frederick Health 

Emmitsburg Urgent Care

16403 Old Emmitsburg Rd., 

Emmitsburg, MD

240-566-7100

Frederick Health Hospital 400 West 7th St., Frederick, MD 301-566-3300
About Emmitsburg 21

Name Location Phone

WellSpan Gettysburg 

Hospital Emergency 

Department

147 Gettys St., Gettysburg, PA 717-334-2121

WellSpan Urgent Care 455 South Washington St., Gettysburg, PA 717-339-2875

Pharmacy

Med One Pharmacy 101 Silo Hill Road, Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-6226

Restaurants/grocery

Blue & Gray Bar and Grill 2 Baltimore St., Gettysburg, PA 717-334-1999

Bollinger’s 210 North Church St., Thurmont, MD 301-271-3500

Carleo Italian Pizza 101 Silo Hill Road, Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-1999

Carriage House Inn 200 South Seton Ave., Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-2366

China Wok 101 Silo Hill Road, Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-1889

Chubby’s BBQ 16430A Old Frederick Road, 

Emmitsburg, MD

301-447-3322

Dave and Jane’s Crab House 2989 Tract Rd., Fairfield, PA 717-642-6574

Dobbin House 89 Steinwehr Ave., Gettysburg, PA 717-398-3391

Dollar General 501 East Main St., Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-0200

Dunkin’ 103 Silo Hill Pkwy., Emmitsburg, MD 301-458-7261

Gettysburg Eddie’s 217 Steinwehr Ave., Gettysburg, PA 717-334-1100

Hickory Bridge 96 Hickory Bridge Rd., Ortanna, PA 717-642-5261

Jubilee Foods 515 East Main St., Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-6688

Los Amigos Thurmont 205 Frederick Rd., Thurmont, MD 301-271-8888

Mason Dixon Mixin 101 Silo Hill Road, Emmitsburg, MD 301-800-2125

McDonald’s 517 East Main St., Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-3663

Montezuma Mexican 

Restaurant

225 Buford Ave., Gettysburg, PA 717-334-7750

Mountain Gate 133 Frederick Rd., Thurmont, MD 301-271-4373

Ott House 5 West Main St., Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-2625

Palm’s Restaurant 20 West Main St., Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-3689

Pizza Hut 210 South Seton Ave., Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-6672

Rube’s Crab Shack 17308 North Seton Ave., Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-4116

Rutter’s 10201 Taneytown Pk., Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-4361

Subway 101 Silo Hill Road, Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-2059

TGI Fridays 1861 Gettysburg Village Dr., 

Gettysburg, PA

717-334-3133

Tuscany’s Pizzeria 2 East Main St., Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-6435

Valero 16603 South Seton Ave., Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-6743

Shipping/mailing

E Plus Copy Center 1 East Main St., Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-2804

Emmitsburg Post Office 305 South Seton Ave., Emmitsburg, MD 301-447-2655

Shuttle/taxi/Uber services

Tri-State Airport Express Transports to the 3 major D.C. airports, 

metro or train stations. 

www.xpressride.com

800-876-2690

Frederick Cab Service Transfers to the 3 major D.C. airports. 

Accepts Discover, MasterCard and Visa.

301-696-0077

Uber or Lyft Service There are very few of these services 

available in the Emmitsburg area.
22 National Fire Academy State Weekend Program Welcome Package

Name Location Phone

Local car rental agencies

Enterprise Rent-A-Car Gettysburg

Frederick

717-337-9000

301-631-6884

Nationwide rental agencies

Alamo 844-357-6962

Avis 800-230-4898

Budget 800-214-6094

Hertz 800-704-4473

National 844-382-6875
16825 South Seton Avenue

Emmitsburg, MD 21727

usfa.fema.gov