|
|
Follow us
Operational training guide for fire departments released, US
The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), International Association of Fire Chiefs’ Volunteer and Combination Officers Section (VCOS) and the International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI) in the US joined together to release a new operational training guide for fire fighters. ‘Training Volunteer Fire Fighters to Be Combat Ready’ is designed to help fire departments develop a training programme that meets the needs of the community and the individual fire fighter with safety and relevancy at the forefront.
Training can be a constant challenge for volunteer and combination departments. It requires planning, commitment and time to make sure it is done correctly. Recognising the need for guidance on this topic, the NVFC released a training white paper in 2012. The new guide is an update and expansion of that initial document, incorporating key considerations and specific best practices to form a blueprint for a successful training programme. Authors from the NVFC, VCOS and ISFSI contributed their expertise and insights to help direct department leaders in creating a strong foundation for fire department operational training. Chief Brian McQueen, co-author and NVFC board member said, “So much has changed in the 10 years since the NVFC released the original training white paper. We needed a new document that reflected the advances and knowledge that today’s fire fighters need to know to be operationally ready when the next fire call comes. It is through proper training that fire fighters can respond safely, effectively and appropriately when it matters most.” Chief John M Buckman III, co-author and member of VCOS, said, “Training is a critical responsibility of all fire departments. Departments must ensure that training is relevant as well as interesting and fun so that fire fighters will remain active and engaged. Everyone plays a part. We strongly encourage all fire department leaders to use this guide to make sure their operational training programme best serves their fire fighters and the community.” The new guide contains 10 sections that cover the following topic areas:
In addition to the core subject areas, seven appendices provide additional resources, insights and sample documents that departments can use when developing or enhancing their training programme. Download Training Volunteer Firefighters to Be Combat Ready Relevant websites: www.nvfc.org, www.iafc.org/about-iafc/sections/vcos and www.isfsi.org. |
|