ALLEGANY COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now) -- The Allegany Garrett Counties Volunteer Fire Rescue Association penned a letter to U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem and President Donald Trump Saturday asking them to reinstate National Fire Academy training. In the letter, President Jonathan D ayton expressed the organization's concerns after FEMA canceled National Fire Academy classes earlier this month. These classes helped train 90,000 to 100,000 firefighters each year in person and online. It offered free training programs that aimed to reduce the number of deadly fires. FEMA cancels National Fire Academy classes, affecting thousands of firefighters While we understand the Administration's goal of improving efficiency, however, halting these critical programs jeopardizes the safety of our first responders and the communities they serve. These training courses are vital to ensuring that firefighters have the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage emergencies, especially in light of growing disasters and wildfires. Jonathan Dayton "I have joined lawmakers and other emergency services leaders in urging FEMA to reverse this decision. We respectfully request that you take immediate action to reinstate these essential training programs," the letter continued. The Allegany Garrett Counties Volunteer Fire Rescue Association represents more than 30 volunteer fire departments in Allegany and Garrett counties. ...read more read less