JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
During an emergency fire rescue, firefighters have to endure many mental, physical and logistical challenges. How does one prepare to enter a building containing temperatures more than 900 degrees Fahrenheit, wearing heavy gear, carrying a unpliable fire hose, all while trying to keep everyone as safe as possible? They train.
The 11th Civil Engineer Squadron fire emergency services conducted live-fire training Sept. 12 at the Emergency Fire Services Training Area here. During this particular session, firefighters practiced simulated response to a basement fire. The temperatures of the fire in the simulated basement were nearly 900 degrees Fahrenheit.
"Each fire is different," said Tech Sgt. Cory Blakely, 11th CES fire protection station chief. "To extinguish this basement fire, the firefighters made an interior attack. They had to enter the facility from the top window and make their way down the lower area."
Not only did the training give firefighters the opportunity to practice proper protocol for responding to basement fires, but it also provided an opportunity to practice basic fundamentals. They practiced buddy checks to ensure all the gear is properly secure; proper water application; safely going up and down the ladder and overall ground safety and situational awareness.
The 11th CES Fire and Emergency Services employs more than 75 individuals, both civilian and military. The fire department protects more than 30,000 individuals who live and work on Joint Base Andrews daily. With such a large mission, it's very important that they stay on top of their game and train regularly.
"With this training, firefighters receive real-world experience that helps us to extinguish real fires and practice performing other essential tasks," said Tech. Sgt. Jonta Paten, 11th CES fire station captain. "The training also helps us to save lives and prevent firefighter injuries."