Essex Firefighters participate in forcible entry, live fire training

by Sylene Argent

Obtaining and maintaining the skills to tackle large-scale fires, and gain entry to locked locales, takes skill. The only way to perfect those skills is by consistent training efforts, where procedures and protocols become second-nature.

  Once a year, the 60-plus firefighters with Essex Fire & Rescue take part in two specific training sessions that provide them the opportunity to hone in on specific skills needed to aid in an emergency.

  Last Wednesday, firefighters from Station # 2 participated in forcible entry training, where they used tools to gain access through locked doors that swing inwards and outwards. At the same time, Firefighters from Station # 3 participated in live fire suppression training, using the training structure located outside of the brand new, state-of-the-art Station # 2 on North Malden Road.

  Through the live fire training, Firefighters are able to learn fire behaviour as the training structure simulates a house fire. The structure is a hub of education, as area fire departments, in addition to the St. Clair College firefighting program, have utilized the structure.

  “We can go in and put out live fire conditions,” Deputy Fire Chief Jason Pillon said of the live fire training, adding safety is always top priority.

  “Annually, we like to complete live fire training,” Pillon said, adding Essex Fire & Rescue’s public education and fire prevention tips are key to keeping families safe, in addition to working smoke alarms.

  Firefighters from all three Essex Fire Stations are rotating through this annual training. 

In addition, Firefighters participate in several other training programs throughout the year.

  Assistant Deputy Fire Chief Jacey Brockman has been busy bringing fire education and prevention tips to grade three students at area schools, and a modified program for kindergarteners, now that things are opening up.

  Administration for Essex Fire & Rescue is also welcoming youth clubs and schools to tour the stations, where the young learners get to see the trucks and equipment, and get to use a fire hose.

  It is always the hope that youth will take the information they learned from these info sessions back home to their families, and implement those safety measures.