At the Portage Fire Department, we believe that a strong foundation is crucial for a successful and safe career in firefighting. That’s why all of our new employees attend fire academy. If new members of already have the certifications from previous experience, they still attend academy as a refresher.
What Makes Our Academy Stand Out?
- Comprehensive Training: Our academy covers everything from the basics to advanced firefighting techniques, ensuring that our recruits are well-equipped to handle any situation. The academy covers Hazardous Materials Awareness, Rescue Awareness and Firefighter I/II certifications.
- Experienced Instructors: Learn from the best in the field. Our instructors bring years of on-the-ground experience and are dedicated to imparting their knowledge, ensuring that the next generation of firefighters is as skilled, if not more.
- Real-World Simulations: Our training isn’t limited to just classrooms. Recruits undergo rigorous real-world simulations, preparing them for the challenges they’ll face in the field.
- Paid Training: We value the time and commitment of our recruits. That’s why our Fire Academy is not just about training; it’s a paid commitment, ensuring that our recruits can focus entirely on their training without financial worries.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Our training facilities are equipped with the latest tools and technologies, ensuring that our recruits train in an environment that mirrors real-world scenarios.( Check out the MAAC website by clicking here)
By the end of the 11 weeks, our recruits emerge as well-rounded, skilled, and confident firefighters, ready to serve the community and uphold the high standards of the Portage Fire Department.
At the Portage Fire Academy, recruits undergo a dynamic 11-week program designed to equip them with essential firefighting skills and knowledge. The curriculum includes the IFSTA Essentials of Firefighting 7th Edition and covers various critical topics such as:
- Safety and Awareness: SIDS, Autism Awareness, Suicide Awareness, Bloodborne Pathogens.
- Technical Training: ERG, Tech Rescue Awareness, ICS (100, 200, 700, 800).
- Orientation: Fire Service Introduction, Safety, Pride & Ownership, History, Wellness.
- Equipment Handling: PPE, SCBA, Fire Hose Operations, Hose Streams, Foam Firefighting.
- HazMat: Extensive Hazardous Materials training including awareness, operations, and gas hazards.
- Building Construction: Understanding building materials, structural collapse, and fire suppression effects.
- Tools: Operation and maintenance of hand and power tools.
- SCBA Confidence: Multiple confidence-building exercises with SCBA.
- Ropes and Knots: Essential skills for rescue operations.
- Fire Dynamics: Understanding fire behavior and dynamics.
- Forcible Entry: Techniques for gaining entry during emergencies.
- Ground Ladders and Communications: Incident scene operations.
- First Aid: Basic first aid provider training.
- Search and Rescue: Structural search, rescue tactics, and tactical ventilation.
- Fire Extinguishers: Use of portable fire extinguishers on liquid and gas fires.
- Fire Suppression and Drills: Hands-on fireground drills, live fire exercises, and suppression techniques.
- Technical Rescue and Extrication: Vehicle extrication and traffic incident management.
- Overhaul and Scene Preservation: Post-fire operations including property conservation.
- Survival and Rescue Drills: Firefighter survival and rescue techniques.
- Fire Origin and Cause: Determining the cause of fires.
- Fire Suppression Systems: Skills for operating suppression systems and standpipe operations.
- Mayday Procedures: RIT and search and rescue procedures.
The program culminates in comprehensive state evaluations, including written and skills tests, leading up to graduation.
With this comprehensive training program, the Portage Fire Department ensures that its members are not only well-prepared for their roles but also compensated for their dedication and hard work. Join us and embark on a journey of continuous learning and growth.
