As soon as you join the fire department you are not a firefighter. Many hours need to be dedicated to training. These training classes incorporate both class room instruction and hands on fire fighting training. This training is to insure your safety.
This training classes incorporate training in fire science, fire fighting technique, apparatus operation, and fire fighter safety. With these skills you will learn to effectively and safely operate as a firefighter.
This initial training is the same training received regardless of being a volunteer or a paid firefighter. It is designed to teach you the fundamentals of fire fighting and safety.
ADVANCED CLASSES
After your initial training you will be able to operate as a basic firefighter. From this point you can receive training in many specialized aspects of the fire service. Some of these advanced class teach you special techniques, advanced safety skills, or specialized operations.
Examples of these classes include:
Vehicle Rescue
Rope Rescue
Trench Rescue
Structural Fire Fighting
Rapid Intervention Techniques
Fire Fighter Survival
You have the option of continuing your education by taking any of these classes and many others. The number of hours dedicated to training are up to you. Most classes help train you in specialized aspect of the fire service.
IN HOUSE TRAINING
In addition to specific classes each department offers training within it's own department. These training sessions incorporate department equipment, and department standard operational practices. these classes are taught by your fellow firefighters.
Each department holds these training sessions in there own locations. They are scheduled within the department through out the year. This way your own department will help to ensure that you have the training to safely perform as a firefighter.
HOW DO I GET THIS TRAINING?
First, let me start by telling you that we supply all this training for you. We help schedule the classes, pay for tuition, and support you through out your training.
Westmoreland County Department of Public Safety has committed a multi-million dollar training center to public safety education. This training center, located in South Huntingdon Township, has class room facilities, a burn tower, flammable liquids and gas area. They are able to teach a multitude of classes and give you training in "Live Fire Situations" in a controlled and safe environment.
In addition to this training facility, classes are taught in individual fire stations and onsite locations.
YOU ARE NOT ON YOUR OWN
It is important to remember that even with this training you are never alone in fire fighting activities. You will never be made to do anything that makes you uncomfortable or above your skill level. Experienced firefighters accompany you along your way both on the fire scene and in training. The safety of our fellow firefighters is always above everything else on the fire ground. Firefighters form a bond with each other because you know that when you are called upon to perform, we will all be there for each other.
