When Does Training End?

I recently overheard a conversation between two firefighters who were talking about all of the experience they had in their department. I looked up and asked, “how many years have you been in the department?” I actually chuckled when I was told by one of the members that he had six years of experience in the fire service. I am willing to bet that as you read my last sentence, you too have a smile on your face. Truthfully, being a first responder is a job that requires constant training and practice from your first day on the job until your last.

Years of service does not necessarily qualify you to say that you are an experienced responder. This time of the year, I get nervous because we are entering brush fire season. Let’s face it, many firefighters have very little experience fighting brush fires. I am sure if you have been in the fire service for a few years, you have encountered a brush fire that might appear large to you upon arrival, but in reality it was a small fire that was quickly knocked down by two or three members who were lucky enough to be part of the crew on the brush truck. The fire that I worry about is the wind-driven brush fire that manages to take advantage of the strong winds of spring and runs through an area like a freight train. The next time you sit in your ready room, share stories of brush fires of the past that have challenged your department.

Training never ends. All responders need to know every aspect of their job. Are you able to perform your job when the conditions get rough? Ask yourself if you are truly physically fit to perform under challenging conditions. Kudos to those members that go to the gym regularly to maintain their fitness and cardio performance.

Are you a student of your craft? Do you read articles that talk about recent fires or new products? When was the last time you came down to the firehouse and took a short rope and performed some of the basic knots with which you’re supposed to be proficient? Do you know how to use that knot to quickly hoist a line or a tool to a roof? If you think you can, challenge yourself and do it! Talking about forcing a door is not the same as doing it. Don’t wait for the yearly drill on a specific tool. You must remain proficient in the techniques and operations that you use every day.

Regardless of your years of experience, your current rank or your rank from the past, lead by example. Remain dedicated to your job. Study, practice, try new things, and ask questions! Astory of the past that is shared with one another means nothing if it does not end with a lesson being shared and learned by others.

When the alarm sounds, respond to the call with enthusiasm. If you miss the truck, stay at the firehouse until the truck returns. Offer to fill bottles, wash tools, and hear the story about the call.

When does training end? I say never!

- Dennis

Announcements

Scvfaawards Dinner

The Suffolk County Volunteer Firefighter’s Association Annual Dinner and Firefighter of the Year presentation will be held on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at the Coram Fire Department, 303 Middle Country Road in Coram. The event begins at 1800 with appetizers, (beer, wine, and soda included) followed by the installation of officers, dinner, and the Suffolk County Firefighter of the Year presentations for 2023. The cost is $65 per person.

Tickets are limited, so please order your tickets as soon as possible. Please visit our website at http://www.scvfaonline.org/2023, for the dinner application and journal advertisement application. For f urther information, email the SuffolkSecretary@gmail.com.

25th Annualcopiague Chiefs Golftournament

The 25th Annual Copiague Chiefs Golf Tournament will be held on July 31, 2023, at the Bethpage Red course. Breakfast is at 0600, registration at 0700 and shotgun start at 0730. Dinner will be at the Copiague Fire Department Headquarters. Cost per golfer is $185. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For information call Chief Broyles at 631-445-9346.

DOES YOUR DEPARTMENT HAVE APIO?

Fire News is compiling a list of department Public Information Officers. If your department has a PIO, please send Fire News the PIO’s name, department, and contact information. E-mail us at li@FireNews.com. Thank you for your help.