By Christine M. Quirk — Christine@concordbridge.org
Concord firefighter Rachel Vroegindewey is one of 31 recent graduates of the state’s 50-day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program.
“Massachusetts firefighters are on the frontlines protecting their communities every day, and today’s graduates are needed now more than ever,” State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine said in a statement.
“The hundreds of hours of foundational training they’ve received will provide them with the physical, mental, and technical skills to perform their jobs effectively and safely.”
Graduates receive classroom instruction in basic firefighting skills. They must practice in non-fire and controlled fire conditions and demonstrate aptitude in life safety, search and rescue, ladder operations, water supply, pump operation, and fire attack.
They also receive training in public fire education, hazardous material incident mitigation, flammable liquids, stress management, and self-rescue techniques during the 10-week program.
Vroegindewey is now certified to the Firefighter I/II levels and Hazardous Materials First Responder Operations by the Massachusetts Fire Training Council.
