Training
Training is a major portion of Peach County Fire Department's Fire Explorer Program. Training is never finished -- it is a continuing effort.
While firefighting has its risks, every effort will be made to point out these risks to the Fire Explorers and train them on how to deal with these risks safely, efficiently, and successfully.
Members of Fire Explorer Post 900 undergo supervised training and testing throughout the program. "Supervised" can mean supervision and guidance provided by a:
- Post 900 Adult Advisor
- Fire Explorer Officer
- Certified PCFD Firefighter
Currently, there are three general levels of training progression:
Red |
Members are allowed to attend the twice-per-month meetings only |
|---|---|
Yellow |
Members are allowed to ride on the apparatus to a fire call but cannot leave the vehicle upon reaching the scene |
Green |
Members are allowed to ride on the apparatus to a fire call and can provide limited background assistance to the firefighters |
During each of the bi-monthly meetings, at least one hour is devoted to training. An adult advisor will provide one-on-one assistance to a new member to get that member started off properly in the program.
A new member will quickly learn a great deal about firefighting -- from the exciting to the routine. A member will learn about such things as a firefighter's personal equipment, the apparatus and all of its components, and how the firefighters assess and work a fire scene. A member will also learn how to properly maintain their equipment items, the apparatus, and the fire station (yes, they may have to wash dishes).
Before a new ("red") member can move to the next level, the member will have to show proficiency in a number of areas. An adult advisor will observe the member and sign off on six different training checklists to indicate that the member has become proficient and/or knowledgeable in these given areas. Once all six checklists have been completed, the member will take a written test on these subjects/areas. Upon passing this written test and obtaining an adult advisor's endorsement, the member will advance to the next training level ("yellow").
Each member progresses through the different traing levels at his/her own pace. There is no time constraint for completing a particular level; however, the member must continue to show a willingness to progress to the next level.
Each Fire Explorer will be provided his/her own personal firefighting equipment, i.e., "turnout" gear. This personal equipment is provided by the Peach County Fire Department. Members are also provided pagers so they will receive the same fire call information as the PCFD firefighters.
As a reward, Fire Explorers are allowed to spend the night at a specified fire station and observe and participate in activities with the firefighters. During the school year, these overnight stays can occur only on a Friday or Saturday night (permission must also be granted by the on-duty fire station commander).