Finding time to train is difficult. Finding time to tackle all the trainings required of emergency services is overwhelming. To help, we’ve added a Department Training Guide in our online DFC Resource Library. This printable resource (Monthly Drill Calendar)  schedules one year of drills, required safety, OSHA and HIPAA training, and specialized topics.

At The Fire House

Consult your department’s leadership and fellow fire fighters in order to balance required and specialized training needed to care for your community. Some topics can be adequately covered virtually or via take-home reading. Nothing, however, is a substitute for hands-on experience. Mapping out a training pathway that spans one to two years, time can be committed to extended learning through a variety of modes.

Because individuals learn differently, incorporating virtual, ‘homework’ and physical in-person exercises, members of the department are guaranteed an avenue to effectively participate and receive necessary training.

The Schedule

Below is a suggested outline of training topics and how the information can be delivered to your department. The needs of individual departments vary, so tailor this outline to meet your needs. Stay tuned for monthly posts focused on training topics and effective training methods.

Virtual or ‘Homework’ Training:

  • Safety Training: Station Safety; Inspection, Maintenance and Use of Power Tools; PPE Review; Fireground Safety
  • OSHA Training: Blood-borne pathogens; HazCom; Lock out/Tag out; Harassment
  • HIPAA Training

In-Person Training:

  • Emergency Vehicle Operations Training (Driving Safety)
  • NFPA 1002 Course w/ select vehicles
  • Agricultural Emergencies (grain bin safety, chemical/fertilizer spills, equipment fires and accidents)
  • Vehicle Machinery Operations

Drills by Month:

January

  • SCBA Skills: SCBA Review, Maintenance, Filling Procedures, Respiratory Hazards and RIT Bottle
  • FF Skills: gear review, PPE inspection, gear don/doffing drills

February

  • Search & Rescue – Firefighter Rescue Survey & Mindset
  • Ropes & Knots

March

  • RIT: Rasp Bag use and deployment
  • Engine Skills: Stretches and Hoseloads

April

  • SCBA: Donning & Doing, Emergency Procedures, Shifting & Dumping
  • FF Skills: District Familiarization

May

  • Search & Rescue: Rescue Drags, Carries & Window Transitions
  • Forcible Entry

June

  • RIT Pack Review & Deployment
  • Engine Skills: Supply Procedures

July

  • SCBA Consumption Course
  • Wildland/Brush Fire Skills

August

  • Searches (Oriented & Split)
  • Ladders

September

  • Mayday Procedures & Communications
  • Engine Skills: Advancements

October

  • SCBA Confidence Course
  • FF Skills: Pump Operations

November

  • Search & Rescue: VES
  • Truck Skills: Ventilation

December

  • Rescue Competencies (Drags, Carries and Drills)
  • Engine Skills: Water Applications