When things get hot – really hot – a firefighter has to rely on training to respond in a fashion that saves lives, including his own.
Coahoma County Volunteer Firemen are currently taking Fireman 1, a course all firefighters take to learn the basics of the complex and dangerous task of responding to fires, auto accidents and dangerous situations where someone need help.
“They will actually be called Level 1 Firefighters when the finish the course,” said Hunter Rybolt, a Certified Firefighter Instructor for the State of Mississippi. “Safety, health and personal protection are some of the first things we go over.”
Safety is critical to a firefighter and so complex. Rybolt said a firefighter has to think what might happen to stay out of harm’s way. He said veteran firefighters watch out for the new guys and until a new firefighter gets some years on him or her, they have to rely on training fundamentals.
“When things get hot and happening fast, you have to rely on training,” said Rybolt. “Nine times out of ten, training has taught you the right thing to do.”
Health is also critical to new volunteers.
“Many volunteers don’t realize how you have to be in shape to do this job,” he explained. “You also have to learn to listen to your body and realize you will make mistakes and respond slower when you are fighting a fire and get tired or over-heated.”
He also said firefighters need to know what kind of fire they are fighting and what kind of smoke or vapors they might be breathing.
“We teach them how to watch out for certain chemicals and how important it is to record any accident or injury they get,” said Rybolt. “The materials in cars and homes today are very toxic when they burn.”
And while everyone knows about the fire helmet, turnout gear and breathing apparatus, few know how to properly use them.
“A firefighter’s gear can keep them from getting hurt, but it has to be put on correctly and used correctly,” said Rybolt. “You also have to realize what the limitations of your turnouts are. They won’t protect you from everything.”
Rybolt said this training is offered by the county about every 18-months or when they can put together a class. This spring’s class has nine volunteers and they will finish up in March with an exam.
“Firefighters don’t just squirt water,” said Rybolt. “They are trained to respond quickly and efficiently and save lives and property. And it all starts with taking Fireman 1.”’
