KFD Finishes Up Basic Training Program
Hello, Cody Phinney back for another update from the Kindersley Fire Brigade. I hope everyone had a safe and happy holiday season!
Our new members are finishing up our basic training program. Each new member has a set amount of online modules covering topics such as the incident command structure and basic personal protective equipment before they receive their pager. All new members must also go through 18 hours of hands-on training to familiarize themselves with the tools and basic aspects of firefighting.
The cold weather of a Saskatchewan winter presents many challenges for firefighters. For example, some of the things our members contend with during a structure fire is their gear freezing stiff which also adds extra weight, SCBA masks forming layers of ice on both the inside and outside, which greatly reduces visibility, and of course fighting our way through the snow is never easy in all our gear. Our bunker gear usually does a great job at keeping ourselves warm, but that can change in a hurry once water and hose lines get involved. As mentioned previously, keeping all entrance and exit routes from your home clear can help you escape safely, and help us help you. Keeping snow clear of walkways, doors, and even gates goes a long way to help out firefighters in the event of an emergency. If you have a fire hydrant on or near your property you should maintain a three feet of clear area around it on all sides for access. Thank you for reading!