On Thursday, afternoon and evening crews from the Fitchburg Fire Department were out training on the driving and operation aspects of the fire engines that they staff each day.
Each month department members learn and train on different situations that they may face as a driver or operator of the department’s vehicles. The training covers a diverse spectrum of situations throughout the year. This month’s training centers around two main topics.
The driver/operators of the department practiced connecting the supply hose to the fire hydrant to the fire engine; while a separate hose (which would be used to extinguish the fire) is put into operation before running out of water which is carried on the engine (750 gallons).
The department members also familiarized themselves with the methods of extinguishing grass/brush fires. One particular aspect of this training was to understand how to safely and effectively use the Tender (truck specifically designed to carry water) to extinguish fires.