| Earlier in the year, Captain A.J. McCarthy devised a recruit program for incoming members into the Longwood Fire Company. The program is a "crash course" on the basics of the LFC operations and equipment. For the past few months, a group of new recruits have taken time out of their schedules to meet with the Recruit Program Instructors to go over certain aspects of the fire service in addition to the company's weekly training nights.
The program is set up in blocks with each block covering a different aspect of the fire company. Block 1 is an overview of the company, the apparatus, the governing agencies and the operations of the company. In block 2, the members are issued their turnout gear and are taught how to properly wear, maintain and use their PPE. Block 3 was held this past Wednesday night and included a detailed hands on class on the hand and power tools the company uses. Despite the rainy night, the recruit members were still able to get some tool time and learn some of the practical applications of the tools. Block 4 is the hoseline class and after this course is completed, the recruits will be issued pagers and may begin responding to incidents. Blocks 5 and 6 cover ladders, rope and other elements crucial to firefighting operations. At the end of the program, a 100 question written exam is administered which covers everything the recruits have learned.
The officers and members would like to thank the recruits for their interest, time and dedication to serving with Longwood. Congratulations on the efforts you have put forward thus far and good luck with the remaining classes. Keep up the good work guys! |
