Day 27 - It was time to put all our rescue skills to the test. After chores and a few other housekeeping items, we headed to the gym for dress out drills and a few extra rescue techniques. Right before lunch, we prepared the fire ground for our afternoon drills.
We had four stations - Carries up the drill tower (both chair and extremity), the Denver Drill, Bailouts from the Third Floor, and Large room search and rescue.
Lieutenant came around and had me pick a number 1 to 100. I picked 50, which sent my group to the Carry Station. My thought was, let's get the hardest completed first right? Out to the drill tower we went to meet up with the Captain. The first group headed up the inside of the drill tower. After running into other groups, we moved out to the much smaller outside stairs. It was finally my turn, so my group prepared for our carries. As we were deciding who to carry, a 200 pound guy with an additional 50lbs of gear sat down in the chair. It was up to my and another cadet (similar to my size) to take him up and down the stairs. We raised him off the ground and into the chair. I grabbed the feet end and step by step we headed up the stairs. Our strategy would have worked great, but the chair kept sliding through the stairs. On our way back down, we really got the chair stuck. By an act of God, the chair came loose from the stair, and we manged to get him to the bottom. My partner and I sucked our air cylinders down to the low pressure bells. It's amazing how much energy it takes to move someone who almost double my weight.
We only made it through half of our station. We were called in and sent to PT. Because it was a Wednesday, I had EMT class. That afternoon was by far the hardest day so far. Thursday would bring more of the same.
Day 28 - After chores, we set up the stations once again. We needed to complete our extremity carries up and down the tower. My partner and I had decided that we would carry a lighter person up and down. We picked up our patient and started to head up the stairs. Captain realized that we had someone different, stopped us, and made us carry the person from the day before. Luckily, this carry was easier than the chair. We managed to carry our patient up, and at the top we rotated. Someone carried me down. I would later have to carry someone else down. Station Complete.
On to the Denver Drill. Chief was our instructor for this station. What is the Denver Drill? Imagine you have a unconscious firefighter and you need to get him out quickly. Your only option is out a window, but you can't get to the sides of of the window, you can only go straight at it (the sides are blocked by filing cabinets or other large objects). The Denver Drill allows two firefighters to safely and easily get this firefighter out the window. We learned three options and tried everyone of them. As one of the lightest in my group, I was a patient several times and bent into a pretzel.
After lunch, we headed to our last two stations. The first one was with Captain. It involved heading out a third story window head first. Used as an emergency means of escaping a burning building, the head first bail out requires the firefighter to go down a ladder head first, lock an arm in the rungs, and then rotate around (facing the ladder in the correct climbing position). A little apprehensive, I started my bailout. Out the window I went, and complete the station without any pause. It was very easy and very fun. It did feel a little strange having the air cylinder and harness slide up your back during the decent. But after everything settled, it was a walk in the park. We also got to do a slide down a charged hoseline (much like a fireman's pole found on a playground).
Our last station was a warehouse search and rescue.
All in all, a great day.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Day 25, 26 - Carries, Drags and Crawls....
Day 25 - Looking back now, by far the easiest day of three so far. We started the day with dress out drills and then a trip to the drill ground. On Air we waited for our assignment. My partner and I's assignment? Take the stairs to the fifth level and grab the weight. Away we went. On the fifth floor we found four 30 pound dumbbells. Each of us took two, one in each hand. When we got to the bottom, Captain did not want us to bring all the weight down. He told us to take a walk. We walked the course and headed back to the tower, where we carried a 30 pound dumbbell up to the 5th floor, and then back down. It was a great way to jump start the week....
The rest of the day was spent in the classroom. We discussed search, rescue, and spent some time in the gym practicing our rescue carries and drags.
PT was a little different. We did a few stretching exercises and headed back out to the drill ground. Here was the rotation:
Run up and down the tower (to the 5th floor) hitting every step along the way. Complete 20 pushups at the bottom (and on the instructors count. Back up and down the tower hitting every other step. Complete 20 more pushups. After that, jog over to the balance beam, Go up and over the fence, and then run up the ramp and down the steps (3xs). The rotation ended at the pull up bar (which I'm happy to say...I did three) and a sprint back over to the tower.
We did this entire rotation 3 times.
Day 26 - After our chores we were gathered in the classroom for announcements. Lieutenant came in and broke down the day.
We started in the gym, practicing our carries and lifts (no turnouts or SCBA). We only had to carry or drag from red line to red line (not very far). We had four stations (Extremity carry / Chair carry ; Webbing / MAST drag ; Blanket drag ; Underarm lift drag). After we completed all the stations, we were told to put on our turnouts (no SCBA). We then did the same stations, except this time we had to drag / carry from baseline to half court. After that, we had a break and headed out to the resource building.
Out at the resource buildings, the instructors had set up a mini maze for us to go through. We put in our smoky wax paper blinders and headed two by two through the maze. Captain walked us blindly to the back of the building, where we were released on a right hand search through the building. Once we had found the downed victim, we retraced our steps and head back to the beginning. My partner and I did well, and got back quickly. We got to take off our mask and see the others finishing up. Some folks really can get themselves lost.
After lunch, we headed back to the gym. We put our turnouts back on and this time...we put on our air packs. Using the same stations, we performed our drills. This time going full court. I quickly sized up my group, and grabbed a guy similar to my stature. I picked him up and hauled him all the way across the gym floor. Tired as I was, I did it. I completed the rest of the stations without much trouble...doing the chair carry twice was not much fun.
After that the ushered us outside so they could prepare the gym for our final drill. The baby rescue....
As the first few groups went in, we all sat around and chit chatted. After 30 - 45 minutes it was getting close for us to go in. I noticed that not everyone had made it out with the baby. About that time, Captain came flying out the door, saying he needed four of us in the hallway. Four of us took off for the hallway. After we got to the hallway, we all dropped down to our knees to get our face pieces ready (blacked out and all). As the doors opened for the first group to head in, you could hear the chaos. But, before I could recognize much, the door was closed. 5 minutes later the door way breaks back open and (from what I heard...remember my vision was gone) two firefighter came out pulling a third. We were called in. We both popped in our regulators and made our way. As we entered the room, you could hear was our missing firefighter's PASS alarm and his low pressure cylinder alarm. As well as the instructors yelling, basketballs being bounced around us, and other folks talking out of their voice boxes.
My partner and I headed down the main pathway. My partner was completing a right hand search. I was was on the other wall so that told me that we were in some kind of hallway. We followed it quickly. It opened up, and right at the entrance was our downed firefighter. I quickly alerted my partner and crawled over to the firefighter's feet. We proceeded to push and pull him out. The only problem was that he was on his stomach. Every time we moved them, the instructors would scream things at us. We knew we needed to flip him over, but as we attempted to flip him over, Captain told us that flipping him was not okay to do at this moment. We continued to push and pull him out..eventually getting him out.
Once everyone had completed the task, we got ready for Ralph. He was waiting for us....
The rest of the day was spent in the classroom. We discussed search, rescue, and spent some time in the gym practicing our rescue carries and drags.
PT was a little different. We did a few stretching exercises and headed back out to the drill ground. Here was the rotation:
Run up and down the tower (to the 5th floor) hitting every step along the way. Complete 20 pushups at the bottom (and on the instructors count. Back up and down the tower hitting every other step. Complete 20 more pushups. After that, jog over to the balance beam, Go up and over the fence, and then run up the ramp and down the steps (3xs). The rotation ended at the pull up bar (which I'm happy to say...I did three) and a sprint back over to the tower.
We did this entire rotation 3 times.
Day 26 - After our chores we were gathered in the classroom for announcements. Lieutenant came in and broke down the day.
We started in the gym, practicing our carries and lifts (no turnouts or SCBA). We only had to carry or drag from red line to red line (not very far). We had four stations (Extremity carry / Chair carry ; Webbing / MAST drag ; Blanket drag ; Underarm lift drag). After we completed all the stations, we were told to put on our turnouts (no SCBA). We then did the same stations, except this time we had to drag / carry from baseline to half court. After that, we had a break and headed out to the resource building.
Out at the resource buildings, the instructors had set up a mini maze for us to go through. We put in our smoky wax paper blinders and headed two by two through the maze. Captain walked us blindly to the back of the building, where we were released on a right hand search through the building. Once we had found the downed victim, we retraced our steps and head back to the beginning. My partner and I did well, and got back quickly. We got to take off our mask and see the others finishing up. Some folks really can get themselves lost.
After lunch, we headed back to the gym. We put our turnouts back on and this time...we put on our air packs. Using the same stations, we performed our drills. This time going full court. I quickly sized up my group, and grabbed a guy similar to my stature. I picked him up and hauled him all the way across the gym floor. Tired as I was, I did it. I completed the rest of the stations without much trouble...doing the chair carry twice was not much fun.
After that the ushered us outside so they could prepare the gym for our final drill. The baby rescue....
As the first few groups went in, we all sat around and chit chatted. After 30 - 45 minutes it was getting close for us to go in. I noticed that not everyone had made it out with the baby. About that time, Captain came flying out the door, saying he needed four of us in the hallway. Four of us took off for the hallway. After we got to the hallway, we all dropped down to our knees to get our face pieces ready (blacked out and all). As the doors opened for the first group to head in, you could hear the chaos. But, before I could recognize much, the door was closed. 5 minutes later the door way breaks back open and (from what I heard...remember my vision was gone) two firefighter came out pulling a third. We were called in. We both popped in our regulators and made our way. As we entered the room, you could hear was our missing firefighter's PASS alarm and his low pressure cylinder alarm. As well as the instructors yelling, basketballs being bounced around us, and other folks talking out of their voice boxes.
My partner and I headed down the main pathway. My partner was completing a right hand search. I was was on the other wall so that told me that we were in some kind of hallway. We followed it quickly. It opened up, and right at the entrance was our downed firefighter. I quickly alerted my partner and crawled over to the firefighter's feet. We proceeded to push and pull him out. The only problem was that he was on his stomach. Every time we moved them, the instructors would scream things at us. We knew we needed to flip him over, but as we attempted to flip him over, Captain told us that flipping him was not okay to do at this moment. We continued to push and pull him out..eventually getting him out.
Once everyone had completed the task, we got ready for Ralph. He was waiting for us....
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Day 24 - Night Fire
Because of our specialized drill, we all got to sleep a little bit later on Friday. We had to report at the training center by 11 am. I killed a little bit of my morning over at Station 19. I arrived at the training center a little before 11. I had to park in the street due to the agility tests that were going on. The next recruit class had to do the physical agility test and their pushup, sit up, 440 run tests on the same day. I found out today, that some of them even did their lie detector tests. Busy day for Class 2010-1.
As for us? Due to the fact that their was so much confusion going on at the center, PT was canceled (Thanks Lieutenant!) Instead, we loaded wood into a trailer for a visiting captain.
After that, we got ready for the night drill. We even learned how to refill the Purple-K extinguishers.
At 4:00 we were ready to head over the burn ground. We had three drills to take on. The gas tree, the gas hole, and the ground fire. We divided up into our groups and got into our turn outs (thankfully because it was 32 degrees outside). Each group had a job to do. Ours was to get all the turn out bags staged by the fire apparatus (which we did) and then get dressed. After that, we were told to start over at the extinguisher refill station. We started filling extinguishers and about the time we finished one, we got called over to do our first drill.
Two of us were assigned to the fire hole, two of us on the tree. I took on the fire hole. I approached the hole, and put it out. My partner did the same. We then switched. When it was time for my shot at the tree, I was called over to the ground fire. Luckily, I was able to put it out on live television (Channel 9 and Channel 3 were doing live shots at the time). We then headed to recovery.
After recovery, we ended up back at the extinguisher refill station. Then, we were back on the grounds to take on the ground fire.
We grabbed an extinguisher. I had already done it, so I lined up fourth in line. All three of my group mates put out the ground fire, and I got another shot at it. As I approached the fire, I started putting out the flames, and as I got to the middle of the fire line, my sweeps were not quite wide enough, and the extinguisher went out. This caused the flames to wrap back around me and ignite around me (and the folks behind me). After I was pulled out of the flames, I ran over and got another extinguisher. I pressed the button to charge the cylinder, picked it up, got back in line and put out the flames.
After everyone had a turn, it was time to pack up and head back to the training center. I did get to help pack up the hose line (something I never did in O'Fallon. Lieutenant gave me instructions on how to assist loading it back on the apparatus. He approved it, and we headed home.
Later on that night, I watched the local news. Channel 12 actually did a package on us. It was good. The other stations had a brief mention of us, but nothing like 12.
It was a great night. Tomorrow is Test number 5. One more review of my notes, and I should be ready to go!!! I'm ready for Week 5.
As for us? Due to the fact that their was so much confusion going on at the center, PT was canceled (Thanks Lieutenant!) Instead, we loaded wood into a trailer for a visiting captain.
After that, we got ready for the night drill. We even learned how to refill the Purple-K extinguishers.
At 4:00 we were ready to head over the burn ground. We had three drills to take on. The gas tree, the gas hole, and the ground fire. We divided up into our groups and got into our turn outs (thankfully because it was 32 degrees outside). Each group had a job to do. Ours was to get all the turn out bags staged by the fire apparatus (which we did) and then get dressed. After that, we were told to start over at the extinguisher refill station. We started filling extinguishers and about the time we finished one, we got called over to do our first drill.
Two of us were assigned to the fire hole, two of us on the tree. I took on the fire hole. I approached the hole, and put it out. My partner did the same. We then switched. When it was time for my shot at the tree, I was called over to the ground fire. Luckily, I was able to put it out on live television (Channel 9 and Channel 3 were doing live shots at the time). We then headed to recovery.
After recovery, we ended up back at the extinguisher refill station. Then, we were back on the grounds to take on the ground fire.
We grabbed an extinguisher. I had already done it, so I lined up fourth in line. All three of my group mates put out the ground fire, and I got another shot at it. As I approached the fire, I started putting out the flames, and as I got to the middle of the fire line, my sweeps were not quite wide enough, and the extinguisher went out. This caused the flames to wrap back around me and ignite around me (and the folks behind me). After I was pulled out of the flames, I ran over and got another extinguisher. I pressed the button to charge the cylinder, picked it up, got back in line and put out the flames.
After everyone had a turn, it was time to pack up and head back to the training center. I did get to help pack up the hose line (something I never did in O'Fallon. Lieutenant gave me instructions on how to assist loading it back on the apparatus. He approved it, and we headed home.
Later on that night, I watched the local news. Channel 12 actually did a package on us. It was good. The other stations had a brief mention of us, but nothing like 12.
It was a great night. Tomorrow is Test number 5. One more review of my notes, and I should be ready to go!!! I'm ready for Week 5.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Day 21, 22 & 23 - Entanglement and Fire
Day 21 - Rain greeted us in the morning. It was a taste of what was going to come. We all gathered at 7:00 am to do our chores. Nothing unusual...moping, dusting, and such.
Once class got started, we were told to get our turnout gear and head for the gym. A few dress down drills later, and we were told to head outside. Our task? To get the drill ground set for extinguisher drills. And yes, it was raining. But lucky for us? Turnout gear is designed to keep the water out. It did its job for the most part.
We had one very large burn pan to move. It was so big that 16 of us could not pick it up safely. We did have to pick up and dump out the water. After some discussion, we decided that we needed to pull it across the ground. The problem with that was, 1. there was a short buss in the way, and 2. The ground was both soaked and not level. We found some wood that we could slide it across (making a track). After some muscle power, we got it to it's correct location. We headed inside for lunch, a little muddy, and a lot wet.
After lunch, we got back into our we turnouts to finish our drills from the day before. Again we had wax paper placed in our masks. Our first drill was to crawl up a staircase and crawl across a simulated attic. We were only four feet off the ground, but because we could not see, it made it difficult to find the the first couple of rafters. After I got the hang of it, I crossed it without much trouble.
The second drill was the entanglement tunnel. Picture a tunnel full of dangling rope and instructors above you just waiting to hook you with the ropes in their hand. But before the tunnel, we first had to pass through a studded wall WITH our gear air tank on. Easy solution, go back first. Once the tank is through the studs, turn on your side and make your self as thin and long as possible. I did just that, and pushed right through. Again, remember could not see a thing. I followed the rope to the entrance to entanglement tunnel. Once my partner was ready, we proceeded. I kept my tank against the right hand wall and again crawled on my side (a tip given to me by previous tunnel goers). Crawling like that helps keep the ropes off your tank. I did get hung up once and had to back up. After that though? No problems....I did have a rope pass underneath me and go complete around me. I don't know how that happened, but it did not prevent me from finishing. My partner joined me and we removed our face pieces to see our obstacles. The maze from the day before was nothing more than stacked wood. Nothing like I thought. And when I was crawling over the rafters? I thought I was going at an angle...no straight across. It really is strange how your mind creates images of what it thinks it is going through.
PT with Ralph was great and ended a fantastic and fun day.
Day 22 - Rain had canceled Hamilton County Schools, but Fire school was on at the training center on Amnicola. After chores we got all our gear and headed to the gym for dress out drills. After a few drills, we headed outside to the tower. We headed up the outside stairs and up to the top floor. Once at the top we headed back down through the scuttle hole and back to the C side of the tower. The sent us around to the A side and into the bottom floor. There we did a search and rescue simulation. On all fours we crawled through the dark room, following the right wall, while searching with our left. Right as I exited the building, my low pressure alarm started going off. Pretty good for climbing up and down stairs and crawling around.
The rest of the day was spent in the classroom talking about fire extinguishers. We also had our 1st EMT class during PT. I'll more or less be taking to classes and once. Fire suppression and EMT. Should be a great time.
Day 23 - Today started just like any other day. Chores and a few talks from the training staff. We were then instructed to get gear minus our air packs and head back to the gym. We got in our turnouts and headed out to the drill ground. We were divided into groups and sent on our first assignment. For this task we needed to create a fire tee-pee of sorts. Using palates, wood, paper and straw, our group constructed a stable, but very flammable burn pile.
After lunch, we tested our skills on extinguishers. This was my first time using an extinguisher. It was not difficult and not a problem.
It was fun to see the different types of fires and the appropriate extinguishing techniques. Tomorrow we have our first night drill, which means we go in at 11.
Good for me. I could use some more time.
Once class got started, we were told to get our turnout gear and head for the gym. A few dress down drills later, and we were told to head outside. Our task? To get the drill ground set for extinguisher drills. And yes, it was raining. But lucky for us? Turnout gear is designed to keep the water out. It did its job for the most part.
We had one very large burn pan to move. It was so big that 16 of us could not pick it up safely. We did have to pick up and dump out the water. After some discussion, we decided that we needed to pull it across the ground. The problem with that was, 1. there was a short buss in the way, and 2. The ground was both soaked and not level. We found some wood that we could slide it across (making a track). After some muscle power, we got it to it's correct location. We headed inside for lunch, a little muddy, and a lot wet.
After lunch, we got back into our we turnouts to finish our drills from the day before. Again we had wax paper placed in our masks. Our first drill was to crawl up a staircase and crawl across a simulated attic. We were only four feet off the ground, but because we could not see, it made it difficult to find the the first couple of rafters. After I got the hang of it, I crossed it without much trouble.
The second drill was the entanglement tunnel. Picture a tunnel full of dangling rope and instructors above you just waiting to hook you with the ropes in their hand. But before the tunnel, we first had to pass through a studded wall WITH our gear air tank on. Easy solution, go back first. Once the tank is through the studs, turn on your side and make your self as thin and long as possible. I did just that, and pushed right through. Again, remember could not see a thing. I followed the rope to the entrance to entanglement tunnel. Once my partner was ready, we proceeded. I kept my tank against the right hand wall and again crawled on my side (a tip given to me by previous tunnel goers). Crawling like that helps keep the ropes off your tank. I did get hung up once and had to back up. After that though? No problems....I did have a rope pass underneath me and go complete around me. I don't know how that happened, but it did not prevent me from finishing. My partner joined me and we removed our face pieces to see our obstacles. The maze from the day before was nothing more than stacked wood. Nothing like I thought. And when I was crawling over the rafters? I thought I was going at an angle...no straight across. It really is strange how your mind creates images of what it thinks it is going through.
PT with Ralph was great and ended a fantastic and fun day.
Day 22 - Rain had canceled Hamilton County Schools, but Fire school was on at the training center on Amnicola. After chores we got all our gear and headed to the gym for dress out drills. After a few drills, we headed outside to the tower. We headed up the outside stairs and up to the top floor. Once at the top we headed back down through the scuttle hole and back to the C side of the tower. The sent us around to the A side and into the bottom floor. There we did a search and rescue simulation. On all fours we crawled through the dark room, following the right wall, while searching with our left. Right as I exited the building, my low pressure alarm started going off. Pretty good for climbing up and down stairs and crawling around.
The rest of the day was spent in the classroom talking about fire extinguishers. We also had our 1st EMT class during PT. I'll more or less be taking to classes and once. Fire suppression and EMT. Should be a great time.
Day 23 - Today started just like any other day. Chores and a few talks from the training staff. We were then instructed to get gear minus our air packs and head back to the gym. We got in our turnouts and headed out to the drill ground. We were divided into groups and sent on our first assignment. For this task we needed to create a fire tee-pee of sorts. Using palates, wood, paper and straw, our group constructed a stable, but very flammable burn pile.
After lunch, we tested our skills on extinguishers. This was my first time using an extinguisher. It was not difficult and not a problem.
It was fun to see the different types of fires and the appropriate extinguishing techniques. Tomorrow we have our first night drill, which means we go in at 11.
Good for me. I could use some more time.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Day 19 & 20 - Hoisting and Blind Crawls
Day 19 -
It was Friday, and one of the coldest days of the academy. We had spent the previous day tying knots, and expected much of the same. We started our day by checking our gear and getting ready for dress-down drills. These occur every Mon, Wed, and Fri. The goal? Put on your gear as fast as you can, in the allotted two minute time. We broke up in two groups. The first group did dress down, while the others assembled their Heads up Displays and Talk Back Microphones.
My facepiece did not have a spot for a talkback mic, but I did assemble my HUD. Later that day, Resource took my facepiece and added a bracket.
I was pretty happy with my dress out time. We did three rounds, and the last two rounds were in the 2 minute window. Lieutenant gave us a few scenarios and away we went. I'm starting to get the hang of it. After getting my pants on, I drop down to my knees and get ready from there. It seems to work fairly well.
The rest of the day we spent talking about ropes and rope rescues. We even hit the gym and practiced hoisting techniques. We lifted fans, sledge hammers, pike poles, axes, and hoses. I had a little trouble with the fan knot. Not so much with the knot, but tying one with a huge tail. No big deal though...
At the end of the day, I and four others were excused from PT. It was the beginning of our EMT training. Hopefully by the end of March, I will be EMT IV trained and ready for the "Real World".
It was a great way to go into the weekend.....
Day 20 -
I had an odd feeling about work this morning. I don't know if it was because I wasn't prepared for my test, or the fact that I was running behind this morning. Regardless of the reason, I got dressed, defrosted the car and headed to the training center.
After SCBA check out, we gathered our turnouts and set up in the gym. We then headed back to the classroom for some quick studying. It helped. 30 or so minutes later and we were going over the test. I got a 90. The lowest score I've had so far, but still okay by me.
We then got ready for the 1st round of drills. This drill was designed to get us used to hoisting tools. Instead of in the gym, we took this out to the fire ground.
We were separated in our small four person groups and head to the gym. There we paid a price for misplacing a black rope. 20 push ups later, group by group we put on our turnouts and headed out to the fire ground. I should note that my air cylinder was pretty low (3,000 psi) and I was the group leader.
I took my crew out to Captain, and he gave us our instructions. Two by two we entered the drill tower through the first floor window. After sounding the floor, we headed up the tower, through the scuttle hole (a ladder to the top floor). We then came down and headed to our second task. Tie and raise a ladder. I grabbed the rope and tied the knot, attached the rope to the ladder and finished. By this time, my low pressure alarm was ringing. We then were sent on our next task, walk the grounds. This involved us walking up some stairs, down a ramp and going over to walls. The first wall (fence) was taller than I. I attempted to jump up and over, but I wasn't going to make it with out some help. Two of my crew mates picked me up and more or less through me over the fence. It's nice to have folks around who could help. As we headed over to the next area, my air ran out. I popped the regulator, and headed to our last station, tie and hoist a fan. After all the trouble I had the day before, I had zero when I really needed to tie it. I took my new since of pride and headed over to kneel with the rest of the class. We then changed our air cylinders and got ready for lunch.....
After lunch, Round 2 of drills. We were divided into two groups...Battalion A & B. and then further divided into groups of four. The tasks were handed out.
Three stations - Confined Spaces, Entanglement and rafter crawl. Again we had to dress out, but because of air cylinder shortage, we did not have to go on air. We did (however) have to put wax paper in our facepiece. That's right...Couldn't see a thing, only light and dark.
After a few passport issues (let's not go there) we all headed out to our task. The trip over to the drill was interesting. We were told to hold on to the air tank of the person in front of us. It's more or less the blind leading the blind. We headed out to the (what I think was) bottom level of the drill tower. After making our way through the room, we headed back out into the light and towards (what I think was) the resource building. There we were sent into a maze of obstacles. The first obstacle was a small sloped wall. That led to a small tunnel. We then proceeded to get down on our stomachs and inch our way through a small rounded tunnel. I'm guessing it was about 17 feet long. I got about half way through and had to stop. Congestion in front caused me to have to wait inside the tunnel. A few pushes later, and out the tunnel I came. We then crawled through another tight gap and waited for our next assignment. That was to return to the gym.
I found that with my vision gone, I really had to rely on information gained by my other senses and the senses of others. I also played a part in their experience. It really was an awesome time and tomorrow has promised to be just as good.
PT went well. I managed to pump out 30 pushups and do almost all the exercises on count. That's a huge step in the right direction (for me at least).
That's all for today...lots to report. I REALLY am enjoying this job!!!
It was Friday, and one of the coldest days of the academy. We had spent the previous day tying knots, and expected much of the same. We started our day by checking our gear and getting ready for dress-down drills. These occur every Mon, Wed, and Fri. The goal? Put on your gear as fast as you can, in the allotted two minute time. We broke up in two groups. The first group did dress down, while the others assembled their Heads up Displays and Talk Back Microphones.
My facepiece did not have a spot for a talkback mic, but I did assemble my HUD. Later that day, Resource took my facepiece and added a bracket.
I was pretty happy with my dress out time. We did three rounds, and the last two rounds were in the 2 minute window. Lieutenant gave us a few scenarios and away we went. I'm starting to get the hang of it. After getting my pants on, I drop down to my knees and get ready from there. It seems to work fairly well.
The rest of the day we spent talking about ropes and rope rescues. We even hit the gym and practiced hoisting techniques. We lifted fans, sledge hammers, pike poles, axes, and hoses. I had a little trouble with the fan knot. Not so much with the knot, but tying one with a huge tail. No big deal though...
At the end of the day, I and four others were excused from PT. It was the beginning of our EMT training. Hopefully by the end of March, I will be EMT IV trained and ready for the "Real World".
It was a great way to go into the weekend.....
Day 20 -
I had an odd feeling about work this morning. I don't know if it was because I wasn't prepared for my test, or the fact that I was running behind this morning. Regardless of the reason, I got dressed, defrosted the car and headed to the training center.
After SCBA check out, we gathered our turnouts and set up in the gym. We then headed back to the classroom for some quick studying. It helped. 30 or so minutes later and we were going over the test. I got a 90. The lowest score I've had so far, but still okay by me.
We then got ready for the 1st round of drills. This drill was designed to get us used to hoisting tools. Instead of in the gym, we took this out to the fire ground.
We were separated in our small four person groups and head to the gym. There we paid a price for misplacing a black rope. 20 push ups later, group by group we put on our turnouts and headed out to the fire ground. I should note that my air cylinder was pretty low (3,000 psi) and I was the group leader.
I took my crew out to Captain, and he gave us our instructions. Two by two we entered the drill tower through the first floor window. After sounding the floor, we headed up the tower, through the scuttle hole (a ladder to the top floor). We then came down and headed to our second task. Tie and raise a ladder. I grabbed the rope and tied the knot, attached the rope to the ladder and finished. By this time, my low pressure alarm was ringing. We then were sent on our next task, walk the grounds. This involved us walking up some stairs, down a ramp and going over to walls. The first wall (fence) was taller than I. I attempted to jump up and over, but I wasn't going to make it with out some help. Two of my crew mates picked me up and more or less through me over the fence. It's nice to have folks around who could help. As we headed over to the next area, my air ran out. I popped the regulator, and headed to our last station, tie and hoist a fan. After all the trouble I had the day before, I had zero when I really needed to tie it. I took my new since of pride and headed over to kneel with the rest of the class. We then changed our air cylinders and got ready for lunch.....
After lunch, Round 2 of drills. We were divided into two groups...Battalion A & B. and then further divided into groups of four. The tasks were handed out.
Three stations - Confined Spaces, Entanglement and rafter crawl. Again we had to dress out, but because of air cylinder shortage, we did not have to go on air. We did (however) have to put wax paper in our facepiece. That's right...Couldn't see a thing, only light and dark.
After a few passport issues (let's not go there) we all headed out to our task. The trip over to the drill was interesting. We were told to hold on to the air tank of the person in front of us. It's more or less the blind leading the blind. We headed out to the (what I think was) bottom level of the drill tower. After making our way through the room, we headed back out into the light and towards (what I think was) the resource building. There we were sent into a maze of obstacles. The first obstacle was a small sloped wall. That led to a small tunnel. We then proceeded to get down on our stomachs and inch our way through a small rounded tunnel. I'm guessing it was about 17 feet long. I got about half way through and had to stop. Congestion in front caused me to have to wait inside the tunnel. A few pushes later, and out the tunnel I came. We then crawled through another tight gap and waited for our next assignment. That was to return to the gym.
I found that with my vision gone, I really had to rely on information gained by my other senses and the senses of others. I also played a part in their experience. It really was an awesome time and tomorrow has promised to be just as good.
PT went well. I managed to pump out 30 pushups and do almost all the exercises on count. That's a huge step in the right direction (for me at least).
That's all for today...lots to report. I REALLY am enjoying this job!!!
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Day 18 - Knots, Knots, and Human Chain Pushups
I never been good at tying knots. I've taken knot classes. I've been a rock climber and had to tie my own safety knots. I've never been able to wrap my head around them. So you can imagine my nervousness of today's knot class.
I had been noticing this day on the schedule of quite some time. I even had the ambition to get rope and start early. Just to make sure I was ready. That didn't happen, but the thought was there.
To my surprise, I handled knots very well. I don't know if it was the teaching, my classmates, or just my mind set. But in any case, I can still name and tie all the Knots I was taught this morning.
The rest of the day went just as well. I was able to return my "nozzle" necklace, I got paid, and had an hour and half for lunch. I deposited my check and ate at Ankar's. Very good.
PT was with Ralph. He worked us out and ended his workout with the Human Chain Pushup drill. We did this the Monday of the very first week we started. For those of you who may not know what this exercise is, I'll explain....
In groups of fours, we all line up head to feet. The first person in line places his ankles on the shoulders of the person behind him. This continues throughout the line with the last person having his feet on the ground. Everyone else does a normal pushup with their feet elevated on the shoulders of the person behind them. It kind of looks like one long person doing a pushup.
On Ralph's command we went up. On this pushup I was in the third position. I was surprised on how easily I went up. We held it for about 15 seconds. After we came down, we all moved up in the line, and person in front went in the back. I moved up to the second spot, and boom...was able to pushup once again. Down we went and to the front I went. The easiest spot was in the front. Up we went...no problems. One more move put me in the back. Up we all went.
It was a big success for me. It showed me that, all this work, all this PT is making me stronger. Granted I can't do a ton pushups, or pullups, or swims across the gym floor, but I am getting better. We all are getting better. And it's something the Training staff has pointed out to us.
Good day today....let's hope the last day of the week can be a good day as well.
I had been noticing this day on the schedule of quite some time. I even had the ambition to get rope and start early. Just to make sure I was ready. That didn't happen, but the thought was there.
To my surprise, I handled knots very well. I don't know if it was the teaching, my classmates, or just my mind set. But in any case, I can still name and tie all the Knots I was taught this morning.
The rest of the day went just as well. I was able to return my "nozzle" necklace, I got paid, and had an hour and half for lunch. I deposited my check and ate at Ankar's. Very good.
PT was with Ralph. He worked us out and ended his workout with the Human Chain Pushup drill. We did this the Monday of the very first week we started. For those of you who may not know what this exercise is, I'll explain....
In groups of fours, we all line up head to feet. The first person in line places his ankles on the shoulders of the person behind him. This continues throughout the line with the last person having his feet on the ground. Everyone else does a normal pushup with their feet elevated on the shoulders of the person behind them. It kind of looks like one long person doing a pushup.
On Ralph's command we went up. On this pushup I was in the third position. I was surprised on how easily I went up. We held it for about 15 seconds. After we came down, we all moved up in the line, and person in front went in the back. I moved up to the second spot, and boom...was able to pushup once again. Down we went and to the front I went. The easiest spot was in the front. Up we went...no problems. One more move put me in the back. Up we all went.
It was a big success for me. It showed me that, all this work, all this PT is making me stronger. Granted I can't do a ton pushups, or pullups, or swims across the gym floor, but I am getting better. We all are getting better. And it's something the Training staff has pointed out to us.
Good day today....let's hope the last day of the week can be a good day as well.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Day 17 - Getting to know your new friends
Today started out much like the other days. Chores, quiz, classroom work, PPE practice, and then PT. The only difference was today went by extremely fast.
After our classroom work we took all our gear and headed to the gym. There we put on our gear and took it off. And when I mean put it on, I mean everything...face piece, harness, coat, pants, etc...At one point we did it three times in a row. I would barely get my last thing donned, and then immediately told to take everything off. I would then be pulling my foot out of my boot when they would tell us to go again...and so forth.
We must have not been doing it to Captains expectations, because we broke down to small groups and worked on taking the PPE gear on and off.
Let me clarify what we have to do and have done by the end of the academy:
In two minutes we have to:
Put on our hood, step into our boots, pull them up using the suspenders, fasten the pants, put on our coat, snap all four buttons, buckle all for buckles, pull over the chin protector, place the harness assembly on our back, snap the bottom buckle, pull the bottom straps to tighten, clip the top of the harness, pull the top straps to tighten, remove the hood top and pull it behind the head, place our head through the face piece neck strap, place the face piece on our face and secure it to position, pull the hood back over our heads, making sure to cover all face piece buckles, place our helmet on the head, secure it using the chin strap (making sure to pass through the neck strap of the face piece), Turn on the air cylinder...opening it all the way, place the face piece regulator on the face piece track and dock it, put on both gloves, pull down the face shield mounted on the helmet, and un-dock the face piece regulator and push it into place....Done and breathing air. We then do the reverse.
That will all have to be done in two minutes and in the dark.
After lunch (which was fantastic...ham, baked beans, macaroni and cheese, and banana pudding) we go into a large circle and did a timed Dress out drill. I had a few hic ups, but all in all...it's getting faster.
During that last drill, my air cylinder regulator had become lose. When I turned on the air, it was shouting out the bottle. I quickly reached back and tightened the regulator and it fixed my problem.
The remainder of our classroom day was spent doing four drills:
Drill one: In full turnouts and on air, complete a two person bottle exchange. This involved one person kneeling on the ground, while the other person changed out the air cylinder.
This skill required the person kneeling to hold their breath for an extended period of time. When my partner was ready (having already unlocked the bottle from the harness), she turned the cylinder down completely and then back on. On her count I took my breath and purged my system. She then un-tightened my air cylinder regulator, removed the bottle and replaced it with a new one. It got interesting at this point because my partner could not get the bottle tightened easily. If you remember, I took my last breath. With out an air flowing, my face piece was supplying me with nothing...meaning I couldn't breathe. Finally I was told to take out my regulator allowing me to breathe through the mask. When my partner realized what was going wrong, they took the steps to get me breathing air again.
On my turn, I did everything fairly well. Had a little trouble getting the bottle back in, but managed to get the bottle changed in under a minute. I thought working with gloves on this drill would be hard, but it turned out not to be the case.
Drill Two: Complete the confined space trailer with air. No problem.
Drill Three: Pass through a studded wall opening, removing one arm from the cylinder harness. Again, on air. Not a problem.
Drill Four: Climb the tower and up the ladder to the top floor. Return to the bottom using the outside stair case. Done.
Using the mask will take some getting use to. While it is not a problem wearing it, breathing just through the mask and not using air can get a little tiresome. It's almost like you can't get a full breath.
PT was done quickly, and we were done around 4:45.
All in all, a good day to be at the training center.
After our classroom work we took all our gear and headed to the gym. There we put on our gear and took it off. And when I mean put it on, I mean everything...face piece, harness, coat, pants, etc...At one point we did it three times in a row. I would barely get my last thing donned, and then immediately told to take everything off. I would then be pulling my foot out of my boot when they would tell us to go again...and so forth.
We must have not been doing it to Captains expectations, because we broke down to small groups and worked on taking the PPE gear on and off.
Let me clarify what we have to do and have done by the end of the academy:
In two minutes we have to:
Put on our hood, step into our boots, pull them up using the suspenders, fasten the pants, put on our coat, snap all four buttons, buckle all for buckles, pull over the chin protector, place the harness assembly on our back, snap the bottom buckle, pull the bottom straps to tighten, clip the top of the harness, pull the top straps to tighten, remove the hood top and pull it behind the head, place our head through the face piece neck strap, place the face piece on our face and secure it to position, pull the hood back over our heads, making sure to cover all face piece buckles, place our helmet on the head, secure it using the chin strap (making sure to pass through the neck strap of the face piece), Turn on the air cylinder...opening it all the way, place the face piece regulator on the face piece track and dock it, put on both gloves, pull down the face shield mounted on the helmet, and un-dock the face piece regulator and push it into place....Done and breathing air. We then do the reverse.
That will all have to be done in two minutes and in the dark.
After lunch (which was fantastic...ham, baked beans, macaroni and cheese, and banana pudding) we go into a large circle and did a timed Dress out drill. I had a few hic ups, but all in all...it's getting faster.
During that last drill, my air cylinder regulator had become lose. When I turned on the air, it was shouting out the bottle. I quickly reached back and tightened the regulator and it fixed my problem.
The remainder of our classroom day was spent doing four drills:
Drill one: In full turnouts and on air, complete a two person bottle exchange. This involved one person kneeling on the ground, while the other person changed out the air cylinder.
This skill required the person kneeling to hold their breath for an extended period of time. When my partner was ready (having already unlocked the bottle from the harness), she turned the cylinder down completely and then back on. On her count I took my breath and purged my system. She then un-tightened my air cylinder regulator, removed the bottle and replaced it with a new one. It got interesting at this point because my partner could not get the bottle tightened easily. If you remember, I took my last breath. With out an air flowing, my face piece was supplying me with nothing...meaning I couldn't breathe. Finally I was told to take out my regulator allowing me to breathe through the mask. When my partner realized what was going wrong, they took the steps to get me breathing air again.
On my turn, I did everything fairly well. Had a little trouble getting the bottle back in, but managed to get the bottle changed in under a minute. I thought working with gloves on this drill would be hard, but it turned out not to be the case.
Drill Two: Complete the confined space trailer with air. No problem.
Drill Three: Pass through a studded wall opening, removing one arm from the cylinder harness. Again, on air. Not a problem.
Drill Four: Climb the tower and up the ladder to the top floor. Return to the bottom using the outside stair case. Done.
Using the mask will take some getting use to. While it is not a problem wearing it, breathing just through the mask and not using air can get a little tiresome. It's almost like you can't get a full breath.
PT was done quickly, and we were done around 4:45.
All in all, a good day to be at the training center.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Day 16 - And the winner is....
Let's start this out by me coming clean. I'm tired and my body hurts. I don't know if that's a good thing and to get better I have to hurt, or if I'm just weak. I'm hoping it's the first. Time will tell...
As for the day? Couldn't have gone better, but the day started with a big scare. All of us were to bring our blue pants to the training center today. Come to find out, a handful of folks forgot. Lucky for all of us, Captain didn't check our pants today.
After chores, I sat down and started reviewing for a suspected quiz. My partner and the two behind us bounced questions off one another until it was time to begin. I've found that I pick up a ton of info that way, and it showed. I was able to answer every question with not having to think a whole lot.
We had a few things to wrap up in the classroom. We completed those few pages and headed out to the resource building to pick up our turnout bags and my new best friend for the next few months....my SCBA harness.
Back in the gym we practiced changing air cylinders, changing in to all our turnouts and face shields, and finally cranking on the cylinder and breathing that cool mountain air (or something like that). I'm proud to say that everyone in the class seemed to NOT mind the face piece. I figured we have at least 1 person have some trouble, but none. Congrats everyone....
We ended class time with a fun relay race. We were divided into two groups...A and B battalion. Our relay consisted of two parts....Get all your gear on and head out to a fire truck and don a SCBA system while sitting. Simple rules, simple game...right?
With thirteen folks on both sides, our game began. Once dressed the battalion chief headed out to the truck. As soon as he left, the next person in line got dressed. As soon as the battalion chief returned, the second person in line went out to the truck and the third person started getting dressed and so on and so on.
I was fourth in line, so I went fairly early. When it was my turn to get ready, I took my time and made sure all parts were put on correctly. My teammates made sure everything was fitting correctly. As I approached the door, Captain H yelled out to send a member for Squad B. I started to head out, but was stopped quickly by Captain W. It really was NOT time for me to go. A few minutes later, I saw a teammate jogging up to us, he tagged me, and away I went. In full turnouts, I climbed the ladder, went through the safety gate and sat down in a small, cramped seat. The seat couldn't have been bigger than your normal chair, but just imagine it enclosed on all sides. I removed my gloves, felt around for my straps, fastened up, turned on my air and prepped my face piece regulator. I engaged my air, stood up, tightened up my straps. I was then checked over by an instructor and sent back into the back of the truck to set up the harness for the next one in line.
I returned back to the gym, tagged the next person in line, and enjoyed what I just had accomplished. It was fun and I had a blast.
After our relay race, we got ready for PT with Ralph. And today was more of the same...Seal Crawls, Swims, one arm crawls, push-ups, butt walks, and many many more.
It was a great day that ended hard, but all in all an awesome day. Bring on tomorrow.
As for the day? Couldn't have gone better, but the day started with a big scare. All of us were to bring our blue pants to the training center today. Come to find out, a handful of folks forgot. Lucky for all of us, Captain didn't check our pants today.
After chores, I sat down and started reviewing for a suspected quiz. My partner and the two behind us bounced questions off one another until it was time to begin. I've found that I pick up a ton of info that way, and it showed. I was able to answer every question with not having to think a whole lot.
We had a few things to wrap up in the classroom. We completed those few pages and headed out to the resource building to pick up our turnout bags and my new best friend for the next few months....my SCBA harness.
Back in the gym we practiced changing air cylinders, changing in to all our turnouts and face shields, and finally cranking on the cylinder and breathing that cool mountain air (or something like that). I'm proud to say that everyone in the class seemed to NOT mind the face piece. I figured we have at least 1 person have some trouble, but none. Congrats everyone....
We ended class time with a fun relay race. We were divided into two groups...A and B battalion. Our relay consisted of two parts....Get all your gear on and head out to a fire truck and don a SCBA system while sitting. Simple rules, simple game...right?
With thirteen folks on both sides, our game began. Once dressed the battalion chief headed out to the truck. As soon as he left, the next person in line got dressed. As soon as the battalion chief returned, the second person in line went out to the truck and the third person started getting dressed and so on and so on.
I was fourth in line, so I went fairly early. When it was my turn to get ready, I took my time and made sure all parts were put on correctly. My teammates made sure everything was fitting correctly. As I approached the door, Captain H yelled out to send a member for Squad B. I started to head out, but was stopped quickly by Captain W. It really was NOT time for me to go. A few minutes later, I saw a teammate jogging up to us, he tagged me, and away I went. In full turnouts, I climbed the ladder, went through the safety gate and sat down in a small, cramped seat. The seat couldn't have been bigger than your normal chair, but just imagine it enclosed on all sides. I removed my gloves, felt around for my straps, fastened up, turned on my air and prepped my face piece regulator. I engaged my air, stood up, tightened up my straps. I was then checked over by an instructor and sent back into the back of the truck to set up the harness for the next one in line.
I returned back to the gym, tagged the next person in line, and enjoyed what I just had accomplished. It was fun and I had a blast.
After our relay race, we got ready for PT with Ralph. And today was more of the same...Seal Crawls, Swims, one arm crawls, push-ups, butt walks, and many many more.
It was a great day that ended hard, but all in all an awesome day. Bring on tomorrow.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Day 15 - Four days too long
The thought of a four day break sounded great on Wednesday, and it was. Spending time with the family, relaxing and catching up on shows (Thank you Tivo). I even managed to get my study guide done, and practice for a marathon of Worship music for church...all before the real weekend began. It was nice to get a taste of what is to come.
That leads up to today. We began our Monday like any other. The only difference was that I was the leader of Battalion A. I arrived a little before 7 and got started with our chores. Today, Windows and grounds. After that, test preparation. Around 8, one of the captains came in to administer the test. About 30 minutes later, we are all in the gym waiting for our next set of instructions.
Today we had instruction on our SCBAs. Captain brought in a few for us to look at and study. We took everything apart, re-installed the cylinder, and tested out the system. We also had a quiz...that's right...quiz and a test on the same day. No biggie...I did fine on both.
At 3:30 we headed to the Gym for PT. And thus the reason for the title.
Having four days away from extensive exercise is not the way to go. I have a feeling I will be paying for it in the morning. I did the directed amount of exercise over break, but that didn't make today any easier.
We started our day with a 1.5 mile run. We then headed back in the gym for our Three day a week calisthenics. This time Captain added push-ups. Exhausting. And he ended with his favorite....Leg lifts.
All of us busted our tail today, and it showed....We ended the day moping the sweat off of the floor. I guess that's one less chore in the morning.
Tomorrow, we get to put what we learned today into practice. That means full turnouts and air....It can't get any better.
That leads up to today. We began our Monday like any other. The only difference was that I was the leader of Battalion A. I arrived a little before 7 and got started with our chores. Today, Windows and grounds. After that, test preparation. Around 8, one of the captains came in to administer the test. About 30 minutes later, we are all in the gym waiting for our next set of instructions.
Today we had instruction on our SCBAs. Captain brought in a few for us to look at and study. We took everything apart, re-installed the cylinder, and tested out the system. We also had a quiz...that's right...quiz and a test on the same day. No biggie...I did fine on both.
At 3:30 we headed to the Gym for PT. And thus the reason for the title.
Having four days away from extensive exercise is not the way to go. I have a feeling I will be paying for it in the morning. I did the directed amount of exercise over break, but that didn't make today any easier.
We started our day with a 1.5 mile run. We then headed back in the gym for our Three day a week calisthenics. This time Captain added push-ups. Exhausting. And he ended with his favorite....Leg lifts.
All of us busted our tail today, and it showed....We ended the day moping the sweat off of the floor. I guess that's one less chore in the morning.
Tomorrow, we get to put what we learned today into practice. That means full turnouts and air....It can't get any better.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Day 14: A Fun way to end the week...
Today was the best day so far.
We started with a quiz, and quickly jumped in to classroom work. After a few hours of PPE classroom work, we headed out to get our Turnout gear and returned to the gym. Our instructor explained every piece inside and out. After lunch, we headed back in the gym. We put all our gear on and headed out side to the fire grounds.
Half of us went to a trailer and crawled our way through an obstacle course. It consisted of window openings, ramps, rafter crawls, and going over and under walls.
After the exercise was complete. we headed over to the drill tower. At the drill tower, we were instructed to go through a window, a climb the tower using the indoor staircase. On the level below the top floor, we climbed a ladder up and out onto the roof the tower. From there we climbed back down using the outside staircase. Once all of us came down, we did the same exercise in reverse.
I had a great time. I felt like a little kid at Christmas. It was good to get back into the gear.
On Monday we start with our SCBAs. From here on out, all the exercised we do, will be with turnouts and air. Now, the real weight loss begins.
We started with a quiz, and quickly jumped in to classroom work. After a few hours of PPE classroom work, we headed out to get our Turnout gear and returned to the gym. Our instructor explained every piece inside and out. After lunch, we headed back in the gym. We put all our gear on and headed out side to the fire grounds.
Half of us went to a trailer and crawled our way through an obstacle course. It consisted of window openings, ramps, rafter crawls, and going over and under walls.
After the exercise was complete. we headed over to the drill tower. At the drill tower, we were instructed to go through a window, a climb the tower using the indoor staircase. On the level below the top floor, we climbed a ladder up and out onto the roof the tower. From there we climbed back down using the outside staircase. Once all of us came down, we did the same exercise in reverse.
I had a great time. I felt like a little kid at Christmas. It was good to get back into the gear.
On Monday we start with our SCBAs. From here on out, all the exercised we do, will be with turnouts and air. Now, the real weight loss begins.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Day 13: It's actually Thursday...
Today went by very quickly and painless. We started the day by going over or tests. We then had Captain come in and talk about Building Construction and the importance of it in the fire service. It really was quite interesting. Partially because, I'm interested in it. In O'Fallon I built my basement.
We were shown pictures of local buildings and were asked to identify the Construction Type. I did fairly well at that, and identifying the buildings.
We ate a late lunch, and then took a field trip to see some bowline construction.
We had a light PT workout and then sent home.
Tomorrow we start PPE....that means turnouts, SCBA's, fun and excitement.
It also means the real work begins...
I'm looking forward to it...
We were shown pictures of local buildings and were asked to identify the Construction Type. I did fairly well at that, and identifying the buildings.
We ate a late lunch, and then took a field trip to see some bowline construction.
We had a light PT workout and then sent home.
Tomorrow we start PPE....that means turnouts, SCBA's, fun and excitement.
It also means the real work begins...
I'm looking forward to it...
Monday, November 23, 2009
Day 11 & 12: Lesson Learned
It was finally Friday of Week Two. The week had flown by, with relative ease. I should have figured something was going to happen.
We finished our communications training, boarded a bus and headed for City Hall. It was time to get our official city badges. After we waited for all 32 of us to get our badges, we sat on the front steps, waiting for the bus. As I looked at 11th street, I glanced down at The Times Free Press Building. It was hard to believe that less than a month ago, I was working in that building. As we sat there, I also glanced at the parking deck in front of us. That was the parking lot that (both times) I paid to park in before my written tests. It made me realize that I really have come a long way.
We boarded the bus and headed back to the training center. Just in time for PT.....
Since it was Friday, we got in our lines and did our exercises. After a brief introduction on how to breathe properly we headed out for our mile run. We formed our battalion lines and took off. Around the 1/2 mile mark, a group of 7 folks started pulling away from the rest of the group. Once this happened, my running teammate and I realized that we were all alone. The front group was setting a rapid pace, but the folks behind us were so far behind, that we would have had to stop for them to catch up. We opted to catch up with the front group....wrong choice.
Our training instructor was not pleased and told the 9 of us, that we would be paying for lack of teamwork on Monday.
Over the weekend my parents surprised me with a quick visit. It was nice to see them and to have them at Kolsten's Birthday Party.
As Monday rolled around, my main concern was the test. I wanted to make sure I was ready. And I was....I missed one question.
After the test, came our punishment for Friday's scandal. All 9 of us had to do jumping jacks, and we got a nice piece of jewelry to go along with it. I think we did around 250 or so....
We started the next chapter on building construction, washed the USR gear and trucks, and started pt. This time I remembered to hold form and stay with the group.
Lesson learned...Never leave your teammate behind...and I have a nozzle around my neck to help me remember....
We finished our communications training, boarded a bus and headed for City Hall. It was time to get our official city badges. After we waited for all 32 of us to get our badges, we sat on the front steps, waiting for the bus. As I looked at 11th street, I glanced down at The Times Free Press Building. It was hard to believe that less than a month ago, I was working in that building. As we sat there, I also glanced at the parking deck in front of us. That was the parking lot that (both times) I paid to park in before my written tests. It made me realize that I really have come a long way.
We boarded the bus and headed back to the training center. Just in time for PT.....
Since it was Friday, we got in our lines and did our exercises. After a brief introduction on how to breathe properly we headed out for our mile run. We formed our battalion lines and took off. Around the 1/2 mile mark, a group of 7 folks started pulling away from the rest of the group. Once this happened, my running teammate and I realized that we were all alone. The front group was setting a rapid pace, but the folks behind us were so far behind, that we would have had to stop for them to catch up. We opted to catch up with the front group....wrong choice.
Our training instructor was not pleased and told the 9 of us, that we would be paying for lack of teamwork on Monday.
Over the weekend my parents surprised me with a quick visit. It was nice to see them and to have them at Kolsten's Birthday Party.
As Monday rolled around, my main concern was the test. I wanted to make sure I was ready. And I was....I missed one question.
After the test, came our punishment for Friday's scandal. All 9 of us had to do jumping jacks, and we got a nice piece of jewelry to go along with it. I think we did around 250 or so....
We started the next chapter on building construction, washed the USR gear and trucks, and started pt. This time I remembered to hold form and stay with the group.
Lesson learned...Never leave your teammate behind...and I have a nozzle around my neck to help me remember....
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Day 10: No that Bad
So today started out kind of hairy. My car would not start this morning. I had to be at the training center by 7:00...7:30 at the latest. My wonderful wife, got up and took me to the training center and I arrived at 7:10.
Today we finished out chapter on Fire Behavior. We had our third quiz (one everyday for the last three days) and then hit the books. The lessons were very interesting. Hopefully it will all transfer over for the test on Monday. We concluded our training by heading out to the drill ground. There, our instructor lit some wood on fire and showed us how different fuels react with water when lit. It was very cool to actually see what we've been talking about. Next week, we hit the drill ground with PPE...I hope.
PT was with our Tues. / Thurs. trainer. He grouped us into fours, and we did different tasks back and forth across the basketball court. I did well on most exercises. The body drag is still not one of my best ones, but at least I did better then before.
All in all, a great day. I can't believe I get paid to learn about fire suppression and get a daily work out. It really is a great place to be....
Today we finished out chapter on Fire Behavior. We had our third quiz (one everyday for the last three days) and then hit the books. The lessons were very interesting. Hopefully it will all transfer over for the test on Monday. We concluded our training by heading out to the drill ground. There, our instructor lit some wood on fire and showed us how different fuels react with water when lit. It was very cool to actually see what we've been talking about. Next week, we hit the drill ground with PPE...I hope.
PT was with our Tues. / Thurs. trainer. He grouped us into fours, and we did different tasks back and forth across the basketball court. I did well on most exercises. The body drag is still not one of my best ones, but at least I did better then before.
All in all, a great day. I can't believe I get paid to learn about fire suppression and get a daily work out. It really is a great place to be....
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Day 9: Cold Baths and Indian Runs
There is a lot of "NEW" to this career of mine. I'm not just talking about fire suppression, 24 hour shifts, and a pension.
There's the military atmosphere, the PT exercises, Indian Runs, cold baths...
Yes, that's right Indian Runs...What's that you say...
All 32 of us, break out into two 16 group lines. We line up two by two 16 deep and simply run. Here's were it gets fun...
As you run, the training officer gets in his vehicle (equipped with radio) and yells go. At this point, the last two in line sprint to the front and become the new leaders. He yells again, and the next to go, and so on and so on. By the end of the mile run, we had done 6 or 7 complete cycles. Chief picked up the pace on the final stretch. I have to admit, while it doesn't sound that great, it's actually a great running tool.
That alone is enough to tire you out, but we had our usual dose of exercises and then full court knee bends, Hurdle bends, and Tennessee Bends. After my round of Hurdle Bends, my legs felt like jello. In fact I lost my balance several times. Fortunately, the Tennessee Bends stretched our muscles out. Those felt great.
But as we were running to the start of the mile run outside, my legs felt weighted down. But that didn't inhibit my sprints to the front. It's surprising how your mind makes you think that you are dead tired, but the next minute your sprinting down the road. Mind over matter....That is the only thing keeping me through the leg lifts.
I took the advice of the training staff and jumped in a Cold Bath tonight. Pure torture. I sat in a freezing cold bath up to my waist for 10 minutes. But I have to say, they know what they are talking about. A little cold water is going to be fine.
Tomorrow we see fire...I promise to not get burned....well, maybe not.
There's the military atmosphere, the PT exercises, Indian Runs, cold baths...
Yes, that's right Indian Runs...What's that you say...
All 32 of us, break out into two 16 group lines. We line up two by two 16 deep and simply run. Here's were it gets fun...
As you run, the training officer gets in his vehicle (equipped with radio) and yells go. At this point, the last two in line sprint to the front and become the new leaders. He yells again, and the next to go, and so on and so on. By the end of the mile run, we had done 6 or 7 complete cycles. Chief picked up the pace on the final stretch. I have to admit, while it doesn't sound that great, it's actually a great running tool.
That alone is enough to tire you out, but we had our usual dose of exercises and then full court knee bends, Hurdle bends, and Tennessee Bends. After my round of Hurdle Bends, my legs felt like jello. In fact I lost my balance several times. Fortunately, the Tennessee Bends stretched our muscles out. Those felt great.
But as we were running to the start of the mile run outside, my legs felt weighted down. But that didn't inhibit my sprints to the front. It's surprising how your mind makes you think that you are dead tired, but the next minute your sprinting down the road. Mind over matter....That is the only thing keeping me through the leg lifts.
I took the advice of the training staff and jumped in a Cold Bath tonight. Pure torture. I sat in a freezing cold bath up to my waist for 10 minutes. But I have to say, they know what they are talking about. A little cold water is going to be fine.
Tomorrow we see fire...I promise to not get burned....well, maybe not.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Day 8 - A Moral Victory
Today I felt like I was actually getting stronger....We once again found ourselves not focusing and ended up on the gym floor on our backs...
I was able to complete all the 6 inch leg lifts that they required. Sure it was a punishment, but a small moral victory for me.
The rest of the day flew by. Thursday we should start seeing fire. I can't wait.
PT was more of the same except this time we got to use Kettle Bells.
Well, time for sleep. The morning comes early..
I was able to complete all the 6 inch leg lifts that they required. Sure it was a punishment, but a small moral victory for me.
The rest of the day flew by. Thursday we should start seeing fire. I can't wait.
PT was more of the same except this time we got to use Kettle Bells.
Well, time for sleep. The morning comes early..
Monday, November 16, 2009
Day 7 - Week 2 begins
Today we took our first test. Well actually we took two. We had a CPR exam and our weekly test.
I think we were all over prepared. The test was not difficult at all. We will get them back tomorrow. but I know I did good.
We then spent most of the classroom time learning about Regulations (OSHA, NFPA, etc.)
We did have a few push ups to get out of the way (event from last week). We then started PT around 3:30 and we finished a little after 5:30. PT was rough, but I know if I keep on it, I will become stronger.
Until next time.
B
I think we were all over prepared. The test was not difficult at all. We will get them back tomorrow. but I know I did good.
We then spent most of the classroom time learning about Regulations (OSHA, NFPA, etc.)
We did have a few push ups to get out of the way (event from last week). We then started PT around 3:30 and we finished a little after 5:30. PT was rough, but I know if I keep on it, I will become stronger.
Until next time.
B
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Day 6: The End of the 1st Week
I woke up on Friday not hurting as much as the previous days, but as the day went on the soreness came back.
Instruction was great. It was our orientation day, so they walked us around the grounds to get us familiar with the campus. It is rather large. The Training center sits on the grounds of several other key buildings. We were introduced to a few key individuals that are part of this great Firefighting family.
We also did an interview with one of our classmates. Well, actually I was put in a group of three. We had to go up in front of the class and tell a little about that person. It was neat to hear about everyone, and as the Captain pointed out, we really do have more in common with each other than we might have thought.
After lunch more instruction and then PT.
PT was exhausting. I don't know if it was because it was Friday...who knows. We had to do Calisthenics in unison (jumping jacks, mtn. climbers, toe touches, and my favorite leg extensions...I'm still feeling thoose). We also ran a mile, in formation.
Monday is our first test. We can only fail two, so it is important that we all pass this test. We set up a study session for Sunday at 2. I don't know if I will be able to make it, but I will make my notes today.
Next week it really kicks up a notch. Even though my body aches, my mind is still awake. I'm ready to be a firefighter, no matter how much abuse my body takes.
I'm ready for week 2.
Instruction was great. It was our orientation day, so they walked us around the grounds to get us familiar with the campus. It is rather large. The Training center sits on the grounds of several other key buildings. We were introduced to a few key individuals that are part of this great Firefighting family.
We also did an interview with one of our classmates. Well, actually I was put in a group of three. We had to go up in front of the class and tell a little about that person. It was neat to hear about everyone, and as the Captain pointed out, we really do have more in common with each other than we might have thought.
After lunch more instruction and then PT.
PT was exhausting. I don't know if it was because it was Friday...who knows. We had to do Calisthenics in unison (jumping jacks, mtn. climbers, toe touches, and my favorite leg extensions...I'm still feeling thoose). We also ran a mile, in formation.
Monday is our first test. We can only fail two, so it is important that we all pass this test. We set up a study session for Sunday at 2. I don't know if I will be able to make it, but I will make my notes today.
Next week it really kicks up a notch. Even though my body aches, my mind is still awake. I'm ready to be a firefighter, no matter how much abuse my body takes.
I'm ready for week 2.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Day 4 & 5: Tired, but still moving...
Surprisingly things are going well. I did have one mess up yesterday. Seems I can't count to 24. To be fair, it was my first military style aerobics workout. And believe me, I wasn't the only one to make mistakes. We ended the day with a run, with a cadence and all.
Today started with a pop quiz, and surprisingly I did well. We also got our gear bags, so now everything has a home. We then did more push-ups, learned about early firefighting, and spent the afternoon understanding were we all came from (Chattanooga Fire History). We ended the day with a workout and a few of us ran a mile to close out our day....
Everything is going great. I need my body strength to pick up, but I need to realize that this will not happen overnight. Do my best, work hard, and I'll be fine....strength included.
Today started with a pop quiz, and surprisingly I did well. We also got our gear bags, so now everything has a home. We then did more push-ups, learned about early firefighting, and spent the afternoon understanding were we all came from (Chattanooga Fire History). We ended the day with a workout and a few of us ran a mile to close out our day....
Everything is going great. I need my body strength to pick up, but I need to realize that this will not happen overnight. Do my best, work hard, and I'll be fine....strength included.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Day 3: Hard Work Will Pay Off
This morning we had to report at 7:00am for chore duty. Clean the floors, dust the offices, clean windows, clean and mop the gym...So from today on, we meet at 7:00 for chores and we start class right at 8:00. Today I left around 6:30 am. Tomorrow I will shoot for the same. I think having to report at 7:00 is fine. When we get out in the stations, 7:00 is start time anyhow...
The rest of the day we spent on CPR, organizing our Turnout Cage, and getting our shirts, shorts and other parts of our uniforms. We also had PT. Today, was a good PT day. I don't look at it as what I can't do, I look at it as this is going to really give me what I need to become the firefighter I need to be. With time, some extra work from me and more days like today, I know my strength will increase.
It's nice to have a uniform. I never got a firefighter shirt in O'Fallon. I was supposed to, but somehow it fell through the cracks. Today I put my shirt on and smiled. I finally feel like I'm part of something bigger than myself. And I'm honored to have this opportunity.
Time for bed and another adventure tomorrow...
The rest of the day we spent on CPR, organizing our Turnout Cage, and getting our shirts, shorts and other parts of our uniforms. We also had PT. Today, was a good PT day. I don't look at it as what I can't do, I look at it as this is going to really give me what I need to become the firefighter I need to be. With time, some extra work from me and more days like today, I know my strength will increase.
It's nice to have a uniform. I never got a firefighter shirt in O'Fallon. I was supposed to, but somehow it fell through the cracks. Today I put my shirt on and smiled. I finally feel like I'm part of something bigger than myself. And I'm honored to have this opportunity.
Time for bed and another adventure tomorrow...
Day 2
I apologize for not getting this in last night, but...here it is short and sweet...
This is and is going to be a ton harder than I thought it was going to be...and I thought it was going to be hard. You can't imagine until you are actually in the situation. Fortunately, it is NOT impossible....
This is and is going to be a ton harder than I thought it was going to be...and I thought it was going to be hard. You can't imagine until you are actually in the situation. Fortunately, it is NOT impossible....
Friday, November 6, 2009
Day 1: Does a group of 32 know the alphabet?
My day started stressed....
I tried my best to have everything ready last night. Clothes out and ready to go, folder in the car....I should have known something was going to go wrong.
I woke up, took my shower and went to put on my shirt. Well, my shirt had a hole in the elbow. The only other shirt I had was wrinkled. Katrina quickly ironed it, I threw clothes on kids and headed out the door. But, mother nature decided to slow me down by putting frost all over the car. I ran back into the house, grabbed a scrapper and went to work on the car. I cleared a few holes all the way around the car, jumped in and headed to get some gas. $7.00 later, I'm flying down Hixson Pike. I finally pull onto Amnicola Highway at 7:30. I had 15 minutes to go 1/2 mile. It almost took that. While I wasn't the last one to arrive , it was close and I still had 8 minutes....
We all gathered in the hall to await instructions. We then were told to go into the classroom and take a seat. As I went to sit down, it was decided that we should all sit alphabetically. After some discussion we all found our correct seats.
The day started and we had several introduction speeches and basic orientation stuff. A key rule that was established early was to make sure we sign our names legibly, no autograph signatures. This was hard for me, since I scribble my name. But, I conformed and did a pretty good job with the name. After more orientation from our Chief, we went to lunch.
Subway was great...I finally go to try their new buffalo chicken sandwich. Very good.
After lunch, we came back to the classrooms, and found name tags on our desks. Of course they were in a different spot. So after we moved our notebook and such over to our new spots, we broke into three groups. My group headed over to the supply building to get our turnout gear. After that we were fitted for our Uniforms. The final stop was over to the turnout table. There they had a professional fitter, who got sizes for bunker coats, pants, boots and gloves.
We then headed back to the room were we watched a short film. After that, we were told to head to the gym. In alphabetic order we went into the gym, stacked the chairs, lined up in lines, and did push ups. We were all still in our coats and ties (well not the ladies). The crime? Messy Handwriting.
I've never been through a boot camp, had military training, or anything quite like this, but I tell you what. I'm excited and I can't wait for more on Monday.
I tried my best to have everything ready last night. Clothes out and ready to go, folder in the car....I should have known something was going to go wrong.
I woke up, took my shower and went to put on my shirt. Well, my shirt had a hole in the elbow. The only other shirt I had was wrinkled. Katrina quickly ironed it, I threw clothes on kids and headed out the door. But, mother nature decided to slow me down by putting frost all over the car. I ran back into the house, grabbed a scrapper and went to work on the car. I cleared a few holes all the way around the car, jumped in and headed to get some gas. $7.00 later, I'm flying down Hixson Pike. I finally pull onto Amnicola Highway at 7:30. I had 15 minutes to go 1/2 mile. It almost took that. While I wasn't the last one to arrive , it was close and I still had 8 minutes....
We all gathered in the hall to await instructions. We then were told to go into the classroom and take a seat. As I went to sit down, it was decided that we should all sit alphabetically. After some discussion we all found our correct seats.
The day started and we had several introduction speeches and basic orientation stuff. A key rule that was established early was to make sure we sign our names legibly, no autograph signatures. This was hard for me, since I scribble my name. But, I conformed and did a pretty good job with the name. After more orientation from our Chief, we went to lunch.
Subway was great...I finally go to try their new buffalo chicken sandwich. Very good.
After lunch, we came back to the classrooms, and found name tags on our desks. Of course they were in a different spot. So after we moved our notebook and such over to our new spots, we broke into three groups. My group headed over to the supply building to get our turnout gear. After that we were fitted for our Uniforms. The final stop was over to the turnout table. There they had a professional fitter, who got sizes for bunker coats, pants, boots and gloves.
We then headed back to the room were we watched a short film. After that, we were told to head to the gym. In alphabetic order we went into the gym, stacked the chairs, lined up in lines, and did push ups. We were all still in our coats and ties (well not the ladies). The crime? Messy Handwriting.
I've never been through a boot camp, had military training, or anything quite like this, but I tell you what. I'm excited and I can't wait for more on Monday.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Let's Get You Up to Speed (part 13).....
July 9, 2008 - My second attempt at the written test. New protocol told me that I would have to re-take the test. So in the months prior to the test, I again read, typed notes, studied in the car in the Life Care Parking Lot...and finally the day arrived. I felt prepared, just like last time, however this time I was much more relaxed....and it showed. A few weeks later, I got my results, and I scored an 83. Much higher than last. Seemed this relaxation technique might be working.
March 9,2009 - My second attempt at the physical agility test. This was a little tricky. I had to leave work, take the test, and then come back. Again, I went in relaxed. I headed to the Training site, joined up with 70+ other hopefuls, and ran my test. All the same obstacles...same amount of time.
August 17, 2009 - The polygraph Test. 5 months had passed. I pretty much forgot about the fire department. In that time, I was preparing for a new career. I was going to become a teacher. I had passed a Praxis II test in Middle School AND Elementary School. I had gone on 4 interviews at 4 different elementary schools. But as the summer ended and the school year started, I found that there was no place for a wanna be teacher trying to teach on an alt certification. Then out of the clear blue sky, a message requesting me to take a polygraph. And on September 9th, I did just that. Hard to be relaxed for a polygraph test. I mean after all, your hooked up to a machine measuring everything from your pulse to your breathing. Passed with no problems. I was starting to think, maybe this firefighter career could actually happen.
August 25, 2009 - I immediately started exercising. Running and walking a combined 3 miles most everyday. I also had to submitted background check information, including references and previous employers. And yes, the sent my current employer a letter. And yes, I had to explain to my boss my situation. He was supportive.
Beginning of October, 2009 - I was called and told that I was one of 52 selected candidates. Show up at the training center for another physical test. Push-ups, Sit-ups, and a 440 Run. While I didn't do the most, I did enough. I passed all parts.
Mid October, 2009 - I get a call. I've been selected as one of 32 candidates for the next academy.
Late October, 2009 - As from my previous posts, I had physicals, tests, and more tests.
November 5th, 2009 - All 32 of us gathered at City Hall at 9:00 to fill out paperwork. We finally get a look at the folks we will be spending time with for the next 6 months. I also had to say good by to the TFP and the friends I've made over the last year.
They helped me say goodbye by getting me this cake:
So now that leads us to right now. I lay here in bed, thinking of my past journey. Thinking of all those who have helped me along the way:
To Kathy, Leah, Dan, Dana, Terrell, Annie & Bridget from BAP in StL
To Aaron, Terrance, Bob, and all the volunteers from the O'Fallon FPT
To Chris, Pat, Mark, Mark, Matt, Jimmy, Josh, and all the folks at WDEF
To Ryan, Malcolm, MJ, Keith, Jarred, and all my NET Brothers and Sisters
To ED, Chris, Brad, Ken, Laura, Megan, Celina, and the folks at the TFP
To Mom, Dad, Susan, Michael, Jason, Madison, Juta, Heidi, Brad, Ava and all my Family
and finally....
To Katrina, Kolsten, Kaleena, Jamie, Misty, Mason, and Emerson
Thank you for believing in me, praying for me, and giving me the strength when I needed it the most. You have all formed me into who I am today and who the City of Chattanooga has hired. You are all in my prayers.
Tomorrow I start my training to become a firefighter for the City of Chattanooga. Over the last few weeks I have written down the past. But my past is just that...the past. And while I've learned a ton from my past...It's time to start the present.
March 9,2009 - My second attempt at the physical agility test. This was a little tricky. I had to leave work, take the test, and then come back. Again, I went in relaxed. I headed to the Training site, joined up with 70+ other hopefuls, and ran my test. All the same obstacles...same amount of time.
August 17, 2009 - The polygraph Test. 5 months had passed. I pretty much forgot about the fire department. In that time, I was preparing for a new career. I was going to become a teacher. I had passed a Praxis II test in Middle School AND Elementary School. I had gone on 4 interviews at 4 different elementary schools. But as the summer ended and the school year started, I found that there was no place for a wanna be teacher trying to teach on an alt certification. Then out of the clear blue sky, a message requesting me to take a polygraph. And on September 9th, I did just that. Hard to be relaxed for a polygraph test. I mean after all, your hooked up to a machine measuring everything from your pulse to your breathing. Passed with no problems. I was starting to think, maybe this firefighter career could actually happen.
August 25, 2009 - I immediately started exercising. Running and walking a combined 3 miles most everyday. I also had to submitted background check information, including references and previous employers. And yes, the sent my current employer a letter. And yes, I had to explain to my boss my situation. He was supportive.
Beginning of October, 2009 - I was called and told that I was one of 52 selected candidates. Show up at the training center for another physical test. Push-ups, Sit-ups, and a 440 Run. While I didn't do the most, I did enough. I passed all parts.
Mid October, 2009 - I get a call. I've been selected as one of 32 candidates for the next academy.
Late October, 2009 - As from my previous posts, I had physicals, tests, and more tests.
November 5th, 2009 - All 32 of us gathered at City Hall at 9:00 to fill out paperwork. We finally get a look at the folks we will be spending time with for the next 6 months. I also had to say good by to the TFP and the friends I've made over the last year.
They helped me say goodbye by getting me this cake:
So now that leads us to right now. I lay here in bed, thinking of my past journey. Thinking of all those who have helped me along the way:
To Kathy, Leah, Dan, Dana, Terrell, Annie & Bridget from BAP in StL
To Aaron, Terrance, Bob, and all the volunteers from the O'Fallon FPT
To Chris, Pat, Mark, Mark, Matt, Jimmy, Josh, and all the folks at WDEF
To Ryan, Malcolm, MJ, Keith, Jarred, and all my NET Brothers and Sisters
To ED, Chris, Brad, Ken, Laura, Megan, Celina, and the folks at the TFP
To Mom, Dad, Susan, Michael, Jason, Madison, Juta, Heidi, Brad, Ava and all my Family
and finally....
To Katrina, Kolsten, Kaleena, Jamie, Misty, Mason, and Emerson
Thank you for believing in me, praying for me, and giving me the strength when I needed it the most. You have all formed me into who I am today and who the City of Chattanooga has hired. You are all in my prayers.
Tomorrow I start my training to become a firefighter for the City of Chattanooga. Over the last few weeks I have written down the past. But my past is just that...the past. And while I've learned a ton from my past...It's time to start the present.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Let's Get You Up to Speed (part 12).....
My first quest to become a Chattanooga firefighter started the end of April 2007. I remember the test was in the middle of the week. I left midday and drove the 8 hours to Chattanooga. I had to take the written test.
The Ratchfords let me stay at their home. I arrived in Chattanooga late on Tuesday evening, and I left early Thursday (I had to return to work by noon, Thurs.) Wednesday was the test. And I was prepared. I had study guides, printed chapter notes, I even had three practice tests. I was ready. The test was a simple scantron test. I don't remember the number of questions, but I do know that it was one of the toughest test I had taken. I left the test room that day with high hopes. A few weeks later, I got the results.
I had passed. A 78. Not the best score, but still a pass. All that was left, was to wait for the next step.
In the meantime, Katrina and I packed the house and moved not once, but two times. Once to an apartment in Hixson, and then to our current home just down the street. It wouldn't be until July of 2007 that we had the next step in the process. The Physical Agility Test.
The agility test consisted of 10 obstacles that had to be completed in ten minutes. The first obstacle was a hose pull down to a cone. The second obstacle was picking up an elevator pack trotting it back down the hose pull lane, climbing up a set of stairs, and setting it down. The Third Stage involved pulling a hose up to a predetermined height. Because the hose was on a pulley system, the hose came up in three or four tugs. Back down the steps to the ladder raise. After that, up a ladder and then back down. We then had to carry a dumbbell up and down a flight of stairs. We then headed over to the chopping station. Hit a tire with a sledge hammer from one end of the table to the other. From there we ran a short distance down and around a tower. At the end of the run we had to climb over a short wall. Next came the tunnel crawl. The test ended with a dummy drag. I completed the test in 3 minutes. Not bad for my first time.
I then waited for the next step. I still had no idea when or what would come next. I was working Mornings at WDEF. This gave me the afternoons to mow grass with Jamie. We made big plans that Summer...both of us thinking that I would be a firefighter really soon. Everyday I checked the mailbox, and everyday I would leave disappointed. Finally,in early August, I got a piece of mail scheduling my interview. I remember sprinting over to Jamie's house (really far because he lived next door) to show him the letter. My interview was scheduled in September.
The day of the interview arrived. I had prepared myself by finding and answering interview questions online. I printed off some resumes, and headed to the interview. Jamie had me thinking that there would be a panel of folks in the interview room. I was lucky. On that day, there were two folks, and both new Jamie very well. The very last question they asked, was a the very last question I found online. I nailed the answer and left the interview confident as ever. There was no doubt, that I would be in the next academy.
September 2007 was my interview date. The next contact I had from the fire department was April 2008. I did nothing but sit by the mailbox and wait. I was also very lucky. My part time job at WDEF turned into a full time position in the evenings. I had even picked up extra work as an Audio Editor at Life Care Centers of America in Cleveland. Then in April (2008) I received bad news. I had not been chosen for the next firefighter academy. I was crushed, but determined. I told myself that I was going to get in the next one. I would work harder, run faster, and be prepared. In some ways, not getting in was actually a good thing. At the end of that month (April), I picked up my new favorite instrument...the bass guitar. I even got to play at Riverbend (a music festival located along the river in downtown Chattanooga).
Failing the first time was not going to stop me from trying again. And sure enough, a few weeks later, I received another letter. I had to retake the written test. My second attempt at this journey was about to begin.
The Ratchfords let me stay at their home. I arrived in Chattanooga late on Tuesday evening, and I left early Thursday (I had to return to work by noon, Thurs.) Wednesday was the test. And I was prepared. I had study guides, printed chapter notes, I even had three practice tests. I was ready. The test was a simple scantron test. I don't remember the number of questions, but I do know that it was one of the toughest test I had taken. I left the test room that day with high hopes. A few weeks later, I got the results.
I had passed. A 78. Not the best score, but still a pass. All that was left, was to wait for the next step.
In the meantime, Katrina and I packed the house and moved not once, but two times. Once to an apartment in Hixson, and then to our current home just down the street. It wouldn't be until July of 2007 that we had the next step in the process. The Physical Agility Test.
The agility test consisted of 10 obstacles that had to be completed in ten minutes. The first obstacle was a hose pull down to a cone. The second obstacle was picking up an elevator pack trotting it back down the hose pull lane, climbing up a set of stairs, and setting it down. The Third Stage involved pulling a hose up to a predetermined height. Because the hose was on a pulley system, the hose came up in three or four tugs. Back down the steps to the ladder raise. After that, up a ladder and then back down. We then had to carry a dumbbell up and down a flight of stairs. We then headed over to the chopping station. Hit a tire with a sledge hammer from one end of the table to the other. From there we ran a short distance down and around a tower. At the end of the run we had to climb over a short wall. Next came the tunnel crawl. The test ended with a dummy drag. I completed the test in 3 minutes. Not bad for my first time.
I then waited for the next step. I still had no idea when or what would come next. I was working Mornings at WDEF. This gave me the afternoons to mow grass with Jamie. We made big plans that Summer...both of us thinking that I would be a firefighter really soon. Everyday I checked the mailbox, and everyday I would leave disappointed. Finally,in early August, I got a piece of mail scheduling my interview. I remember sprinting over to Jamie's house (really far because he lived next door) to show him the letter. My interview was scheduled in September.
The day of the interview arrived. I had prepared myself by finding and answering interview questions online. I printed off some resumes, and headed to the interview. Jamie had me thinking that there would be a panel of folks in the interview room. I was lucky. On that day, there were two folks, and both new Jamie very well. The very last question they asked, was a the very last question I found online. I nailed the answer and left the interview confident as ever. There was no doubt, that I would be in the next academy.
September 2007 was my interview date. The next contact I had from the fire department was April 2008. I did nothing but sit by the mailbox and wait. I was also very lucky. My part time job at WDEF turned into a full time position in the evenings. I had even picked up extra work as an Audio Editor at Life Care Centers of America in Cleveland. Then in April (2008) I received bad news. I had not been chosen for the next firefighter academy. I was crushed, but determined. I told myself that I was going to get in the next one. I would work harder, run faster, and be prepared. In some ways, not getting in was actually a good thing. At the end of that month (April), I picked up my new favorite instrument...the bass guitar. I even got to play at Riverbend (a music festival located along the river in downtown Chattanooga).
Failing the first time was not going to stop me from trying again. And sure enough, a few weeks later, I received another letter. I had to retake the written test. My second attempt at this journey was about to begin.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Let's Get You Up to Speed (part 11).....
2007 started out great. The basement was finished, the Bears had made it to the Super Bowl (and lost), Katrina was finally in a job she really enjoyed, and the kids were healthy and happy.
Firefighter wise, I was also in a good place. I was really sinking my teeth into volunteer work, and was making a good name for myself. And then I got a phone call....
Even though we lived in Missouri, we still had strong Chattanooga ties. We had been visiting the Ratchfords every year since our departure in 2004. Our girls were born three months apart and Katrina and Misty talked daily...sometimes it seemed like hourly. So it was no surprise to get a call from Jamie.
He let me know that he had heard of talk of an fire academy. He wasn't sure of the time frame, but he knew the city had started taking applications. Now I had a decision to make....
It was February 15, 2007. It was around 3:00 in the morning and my mind was going a mile a minute. There was no use in trying to go back to sleep, so I stumbled out of bed and headed downstairs to the basement. I flipped on the Television, and the movie Cool Runnings was on. I wish I could make some great connection between a Jamaican Bobsled team and me becoming a firefighter, but no...the movie was nothing but mindless background noise. I did decide, at that moment however, that I was going to apply for the academy. I waited until a "normal persons" wake up time to inform Katrina of my decision. She was supportive, and an application was filled out, that day.
Because I lived in Missouri, Jamie was my eyes, ears, and feet in Chattanooga. I mailed off my application, resume, and references to him. He hand delivered it to the recruiting supervisor. He then mailed me all the test preparation material. Once I had that booklet, I did nothing but type out notes, memorize facts, and study study study. Katrina on the other hand, prepared our house for potential buyers. We were moving, and the house needed to go.
We made one more trip to Chattanooga in March to visit the Ratchfords. On that visit, Jamie took me over to the fire hall in Hixson. He introduced me to his captain. His captain wanted to meet with me for a couple of minutes (I'm guessing he didn't want to give out a reference to a complete stranger...don't blame him).
As the months went on, confirmation letters arrived with my written test date. My first round on this firefighter journey started late April 2007. The test preparation material covered a ton of information and I thought I was ready....
Firefighter wise, I was also in a good place. I was really sinking my teeth into volunteer work, and was making a good name for myself. And then I got a phone call....
Even though we lived in Missouri, we still had strong Chattanooga ties. We had been visiting the Ratchfords every year since our departure in 2004. Our girls were born three months apart and Katrina and Misty talked daily...sometimes it seemed like hourly. So it was no surprise to get a call from Jamie.
He let me know that he had heard of talk of an fire academy. He wasn't sure of the time frame, but he knew the city had started taking applications. Now I had a decision to make....
It was February 15, 2007. It was around 3:00 in the morning and my mind was going a mile a minute. There was no use in trying to go back to sleep, so I stumbled out of bed and headed downstairs to the basement. I flipped on the Television, and the movie Cool Runnings was on. I wish I could make some great connection between a Jamaican Bobsled team and me becoming a firefighter, but no...the movie was nothing but mindless background noise. I did decide, at that moment however, that I was going to apply for the academy. I waited until a "normal persons" wake up time to inform Katrina of my decision. She was supportive, and an application was filled out, that day.
Because I lived in Missouri, Jamie was my eyes, ears, and feet in Chattanooga. I mailed off my application, resume, and references to him. He hand delivered it to the recruiting supervisor. He then mailed me all the test preparation material. Once I had that booklet, I did nothing but type out notes, memorize facts, and study study study. Katrina on the other hand, prepared our house for potential buyers. We were moving, and the house needed to go.
We made one more trip to Chattanooga in March to visit the Ratchfords. On that visit, Jamie took me over to the fire hall in Hixson. He introduced me to his captain. His captain wanted to meet with me for a couple of minutes (I'm guessing he didn't want to give out a reference to a complete stranger...don't blame him).
As the months went on, confirmation letters arrived with my written test date. My first round on this firefighter journey started late April 2007. The test preparation material covered a ton of information and I thought I was ready....
Monday, November 2, 2009
Let's Get You Up to Speed (part 10).....
I had many exciting times with the O'Fallon Fire Protection District. Three events really stick out in my mind, and are ones I will never forget.
The first one was on a weekend and took place at a Wal-Mart Parking Lot. We had a Fire Appreciation Day for the community. All the fire trucks showed up. We had the smoke house going for the kids. There was a moc traffic drill. And they even had the emergency "Life Flight" Helicopter land in the parking lot. And while I had a very small part, I still felt like a firefighter. Katrina and the Kids showed up (Kolsten in his firefighter outfit) and I felt proud to have my family there. I ended the day on a ride along with 9110. We drove out to Station 2 and then headed to Applebee's for dinner. There I had my first firefighter"perk" as the manger cut our bill in half to show his appreciation. That day showed me that an important part of a firefighter's job is to server the community. Treat them well, and they will treat you the same.
The second event was an overnight "manning" of Station 2 (our volunteer station). We all met at Station 1. We prepared 9110 for its trip over to Station 2. Because there were more folks going then seats on the truck, we had to take department vehicles. We packed our gear and away we went. Because I had an EMT-B license, I was put in a station vehicle. The theory was, should we get a call, the EMT vehicle could get ahead of the firetruck, and be first on the scene (to aid in medical help). We spent most of the night eating, playing cards, and watching really old firefighter movies (they happened to be on TV). I also spent a ton of time getting to know the folks I had been working with. In the morning we packed up, cleaned all three trucks, and headed back to Station 1. While we didn't have any calls that evening, that 14 hour shift showed me that firefighting is not an individual challenge, it's a team effort. And getting to know your team is vital if you want to succeed.
The third and final event was the most memorable moment of my days with the O'Fallon Fire Protection district. An old farm house was donated to all the fire protection districts of St. Charles County. As part of continuing education, the house was being used to practice certain firefighter drills (venting, rope rescue from the second floor, roof venting, etc.) Because of the size of our group, and that most of us from O'Fallon were probationary members, our captains thought it would be a good idea for us to practice first response, and let the older volunteers tackle the more advanced techniques. I remember it was raining, and had been raining for some time. We all got in our turnouts as soon as we got out of the vehicles. As we got close to the house, all you could hear was the sound of chain saws and people yelling out orders. It was a little overwhelming. Our captain had us break into groups of four. As we were waiting for our instructions, we were told to take pike poles and break out windows. After 15 minutes or so, it was my groups turn to go. We were given instructions. Each one of us would have a position. We would have a captain, a nozzle man, and two firefighters to bring up the rear. We would then have a black out placed over our mask (taking away our sight). We then would enter the house and start our search and rescue. Our captain selected our ranks, and selected me as the "captain". By this point we were in full turnouts (coats, pants, gloves, etc.) and we had our SCBAs on (but with no air), and air tanks on our backs. My captain grabbed me by the arm and started leading me around the house. He pointed out locations that I would check as I circled the house. He also pointed out areas in the yard and had me shine my light on every window checking for smoke and/or people. After the near sprint around the house I rejoined my "squad" and waited for our turn to enter the house. By this point, I was struggling to catch my breath. In fact, I was in near panic. I tried to relax, but the more I thought about it, the more I wanted out of that mask. Right as I reached to pull it off, Aaron came over and started asking me if I was ready to enter the house. I said yes, and he proceeded to place the blackout over my mask. As it went dark and my vision went away, I found myself not thinking of my breathing, but the task at hand. It was like someone hit the reset button on my brain. I needed to find and rescue the baby trapped in side the burning house. We were told to proceed. I gave the order to get on air, and we all clicked our regulators in place. The rush of that cold compressed air on your lungs was amazing. We entered the house on our hands and knees and stayed to the right. With the nozzle man in the lead, all four of us stayed within touching distance. I leaned on the objects to my right, while feeling with my hands to the left. I reached and finally grabbed what we were looking for...our baby (actually an ax). I gave the order to head back out. We reversed our direction and followed the hose out. Once on the outside, our captain gave us our critique and showed us our route through the house. We then waited as the other groups did their training.
That evening showed me that I can do this job. I can be a firefighter. I overcame my anxiety and completed the task at hand. I saved the ax. And while it seemed such a small task, it was a much bigger deal to me. I knew that I was ready. I just needed a chance.
That chance would come soon enough....
The first one was on a weekend and took place at a Wal-Mart Parking Lot. We had a Fire Appreciation Day for the community. All the fire trucks showed up. We had the smoke house going for the kids. There was a moc traffic drill. And they even had the emergency "Life Flight" Helicopter land in the parking lot. And while I had a very small part, I still felt like a firefighter. Katrina and the Kids showed up (Kolsten in his firefighter outfit) and I felt proud to have my family there. I ended the day on a ride along with 9110. We drove out to Station 2 and then headed to Applebee's for dinner. There I had my first firefighter"perk" as the manger cut our bill in half to show his appreciation. That day showed me that an important part of a firefighter's job is to server the community. Treat them well, and they will treat you the same.
The second event was an overnight "manning" of Station 2 (our volunteer station). We all met at Station 1. We prepared 9110 for its trip over to Station 2. Because there were more folks going then seats on the truck, we had to take department vehicles. We packed our gear and away we went. Because I had an EMT-B license, I was put in a station vehicle. The theory was, should we get a call, the EMT vehicle could get ahead of the firetruck, and be first on the scene (to aid in medical help). We spent most of the night eating, playing cards, and watching really old firefighter movies (they happened to be on TV). I also spent a ton of time getting to know the folks I had been working with. In the morning we packed up, cleaned all three trucks, and headed back to Station 1. While we didn't have any calls that evening, that 14 hour shift showed me that firefighting is not an individual challenge, it's a team effort. And getting to know your team is vital if you want to succeed.
The third and final event was the most memorable moment of my days with the O'Fallon Fire Protection district. An old farm house was donated to all the fire protection districts of St. Charles County. As part of continuing education, the house was being used to practice certain firefighter drills (venting, rope rescue from the second floor, roof venting, etc.) Because of the size of our group, and that most of us from O'Fallon were probationary members, our captains thought it would be a good idea for us to practice first response, and let the older volunteers tackle the more advanced techniques. I remember it was raining, and had been raining for some time. We all got in our turnouts as soon as we got out of the vehicles. As we got close to the house, all you could hear was the sound of chain saws and people yelling out orders. It was a little overwhelming. Our captain had us break into groups of four. As we were waiting for our instructions, we were told to take pike poles and break out windows. After 15 minutes or so, it was my groups turn to go. We were given instructions. Each one of us would have a position. We would have a captain, a nozzle man, and two firefighters to bring up the rear. We would then have a black out placed over our mask (taking away our sight). We then would enter the house and start our search and rescue. Our captain selected our ranks, and selected me as the "captain". By this point we were in full turnouts (coats, pants, gloves, etc.) and we had our SCBAs on (but with no air), and air tanks on our backs. My captain grabbed me by the arm and started leading me around the house. He pointed out locations that I would check as I circled the house. He also pointed out areas in the yard and had me shine my light on every window checking for smoke and/or people. After the near sprint around the house I rejoined my "squad" and waited for our turn to enter the house. By this point, I was struggling to catch my breath. In fact, I was in near panic. I tried to relax, but the more I thought about it, the more I wanted out of that mask. Right as I reached to pull it off, Aaron came over and started asking me if I was ready to enter the house. I said yes, and he proceeded to place the blackout over my mask. As it went dark and my vision went away, I found myself not thinking of my breathing, but the task at hand. It was like someone hit the reset button on my brain. I needed to find and rescue the baby trapped in side the burning house. We were told to proceed. I gave the order to get on air, and we all clicked our regulators in place. The rush of that cold compressed air on your lungs was amazing. We entered the house on our hands and knees and stayed to the right. With the nozzle man in the lead, all four of us stayed within touching distance. I leaned on the objects to my right, while feeling with my hands to the left. I reached and finally grabbed what we were looking for...our baby (actually an ax). I gave the order to head back out. We reversed our direction and followed the hose out. Once on the outside, our captain gave us our critique and showed us our route through the house. We then waited as the other groups did their training.
That evening showed me that I can do this job. I can be a firefighter. I overcame my anxiety and completed the task at hand. I saved the ax. And while it seemed such a small task, it was a much bigger deal to me. I knew that I was ready. I just needed a chance.
That chance would come soon enough....
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Let's Get You Up to Speed (part 9).....
Application turned in...Check
Interview...Check
Physical Agility Test...Check
Acceptance letter...???
Having completed the physical agility test in May, I figured I would be volunteering by June. Not the case.
Because of problems with our background checks (paper work being lost is what we were told), we were contacted to take a medical physical in August. That was the last step before orientation on August 19th. At that meeting we were assigned turnout gear, a station to serve at, and a scanner / pager. It was an exciting time. I was assigned to Station 5...which was great, because it was right down the street.
As a volunteer, I was required to complete certain items. There was a mandatory business meeting once a month, duty check out, and a minimum amount of ride time with the paid and/or volunteer crews. Station 5 had their duty check out on Thursday evenings and the business meetings were on Wednesday evenings. One problem, I worked every weekday evening until 9:00. With some research, I found out that Station 1 had their duty check out on Sundays. I contacted the Volunteer in charge at station one, and he accepted my request to join his squad. However, I still had to answer pages to Station 5. I was also able to watch a video of the Business Meetings on the Sunday after the Wednesday Meeting. I was very grateful for the workarounds the department made for me, and tried to help out as much as possible.
Duty checkout Sundays were some of my favorite days in O'Fallon. In the beginning I would get up early, go pick up my turnout gear at Station 5, and then head over to Station 1 (across town). Eventually, I just kept my gear at home (I was having to take it back and forth to many different locations, and because I didn't have a key to Station 5, I was in fear that I wouldn't have access to my gear). When I arrived at the station, I would wait for the rest of the squad. We would then Check out the Volunteer truck assigned to Station 1 (9110 - the code for the trucks was very cool, and very important when listening to the scanners...just ask my wife...she hated the scanner...9 was the county (St. Charles County) 1 was the city (O'Fallon) 1 was the station (Station 1) and 0 was the type of truck (0 was a pumper). We had to check everything on the truck, SCBAs, the generators, medical bags, air cylinders, tools, etc. We would then wash the truck. After that, we would work on probationary firefighter check lists and wait for calls. A few times, I stayed with the paid crews and rode on their truck. The only calls I ever went on were medical calls, but I still continued to volunteer my time with the department.
It would be a few months, but it took one event to change the course of my life. An event that may not seem important on the outside, but to me, it made all the difference...
Visit O'Fallon Fire Protection District's Website
Interview...Check
Physical Agility Test...Check
Acceptance letter...???
Having completed the physical agility test in May, I figured I would be volunteering by June. Not the case.
Because of problems with our background checks (paper work being lost is what we were told), we were contacted to take a medical physical in August. That was the last step before orientation on August 19th. At that meeting we were assigned turnout gear, a station to serve at, and a scanner / pager. It was an exciting time. I was assigned to Station 5...which was great, because it was right down the street.
As a volunteer, I was required to complete certain items. There was a mandatory business meeting once a month, duty check out, and a minimum amount of ride time with the paid and/or volunteer crews. Station 5 had their duty check out on Thursday evenings and the business meetings were on Wednesday evenings. One problem, I worked every weekday evening until 9:00. With some research, I found out that Station 1 had their duty check out on Sundays. I contacted the Volunteer in charge at station one, and he accepted my request to join his squad. However, I still had to answer pages to Station 5. I was also able to watch a video of the Business Meetings on the Sunday after the Wednesday Meeting. I was very grateful for the workarounds the department made for me, and tried to help out as much as possible.
Duty checkout Sundays were some of my favorite days in O'Fallon. In the beginning I would get up early, go pick up my turnout gear at Station 5, and then head over to Station 1 (across town). Eventually, I just kept my gear at home (I was having to take it back and forth to many different locations, and because I didn't have a key to Station 5, I was in fear that I wouldn't have access to my gear). When I arrived at the station, I would wait for the rest of the squad. We would then Check out the Volunteer truck assigned to Station 1 (9110 - the code for the trucks was very cool, and very important when listening to the scanners...just ask my wife...she hated the scanner...9 was the county (St. Charles County) 1 was the city (O'Fallon) 1 was the station (Station 1) and 0 was the type of truck (0 was a pumper). We had to check everything on the truck, SCBAs, the generators, medical bags, air cylinders, tools, etc. We would then wash the truck. After that, we would work on probationary firefighter check lists and wait for calls. A few times, I stayed with the paid crews and rode on their truck. The only calls I ever went on were medical calls, but I still continued to volunteer my time with the department.
It would be a few months, but it took one event to change the course of my life. An event that may not seem important on the outside, but to me, it made all the difference...
Visit O'Fallon Fire Protection District's Website
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Let's Get You Up to Speed (part 8).....
In April of 2006, I felt the burning of wanting to become a firefighter. I had already had my interview. I now waited to move on to the next phase....I found out what that was the very next month....the Agility Test.
For those of you who may not know, the agility test is kind of like an obstacle course...for firefighters. There are different stages set up, and you have to complete them in a certain order, under a certain time. Tests vary from city to city, district to district, but all complete the same motions in some way.
Because this was my first one, I was a little nervous. We had received instructions on what to wear, a layout of the obstacles we would be completing, and instructions to the test site, but that didn't ease my nerves. I got up early that morning, and headed to the site way too early. I remember as I pulled up to the test site I told my self that this was it, and there was no turning back. And boy was that true. Things haven't been the same since and I've never given up. Back to the test...
Around the start of the test, the instructors started gathering us all up. They explained each obstacle and what order we needed to do them in. They even had a volunteer firefighter run the course so we could observe.
We then lined up, in one of the bays. For this test, we had to wear a helmet, gloves, turnout coat, and air tank. While we were waiting, they took our beginning blood pressure. Mine (and I wasn't alone) was high due to being nervous. I suited up, and then it was time to hit the course running...
And I do mean running, we had to complete all the tasks in 6 minutes.
The clock started, and my time keeper kept right up with me. I grabbed the elevator pack (folded house bound together for easy caring on the shoulder) and headed up the 4 flights of stairs, carefully hitting every step and holding on the rail (time penalty if those were missed). At the top, I set down the pack, and headed over to the window ledge. There laid a hose. Hand over hand I pulled the hose through the window and into the room I was in. Once I got to the end, I had to lean out and actually pull the end over a lip in the concrete. I then picked the pack back up and headed back down the stairs. I dropped the pack at the required location and headed for the Sledgehammer drill. Simple task, strike a rubber pad, 40 times with a rubber mallet. I completed that quickly. After that, pick a ladder off of the ladder stand, walk it out around a cone, and hang it back up. Again, not a problem. The next step, was the hose pull. Sounds simple enough, pull a charged hose out past a line drawn on the concrete. I grabbed the hose, swung it over my shoulder and took off. I did really good out of the gate. The hose that was snaked out on the ground began to straighten out. I could see the line was in reach, but as soon as I went to cross it, the hose stopped and flew out of my hand. The hose had finished un-coiling and all that was left was for me to rotate the hydrant end of the hose my direction. A task I completed by turning around and pulling the hose. Task completed...on to the last one, the dummy drag. For this test, I had to drag a 135-40lbs dummy through the bay and out the door. I grabbed the dummy and began to drag him. Somewhere along the way, my feet got tangled up and I fell. I got up, grabbed the dummy and finished the course in 4:00 minutes. Not bad for the first time. They did a post-test blood pressure check, and sent us home.
I had done it and with that, the dream was escalated. I finally convinced myself that this may be what I need to be doing for a career. It would just take another 3 months before anyone knew anything....and when it finally did arrive, the news couldn't be better.
Here is a video of an agility test...In case you wanted to know. While different, it does show similar tasks.
For those of you who may not know, the agility test is kind of like an obstacle course...for firefighters. There are different stages set up, and you have to complete them in a certain order, under a certain time. Tests vary from city to city, district to district, but all complete the same motions in some way.
Because this was my first one, I was a little nervous. We had received instructions on what to wear, a layout of the obstacles we would be completing, and instructions to the test site, but that didn't ease my nerves. I got up early that morning, and headed to the site way too early. I remember as I pulled up to the test site I told my self that this was it, and there was no turning back. And boy was that true. Things haven't been the same since and I've never given up. Back to the test...
Around the start of the test, the instructors started gathering us all up. They explained each obstacle and what order we needed to do them in. They even had a volunteer firefighter run the course so we could observe.
We then lined up, in one of the bays. For this test, we had to wear a helmet, gloves, turnout coat, and air tank. While we were waiting, they took our beginning blood pressure. Mine (and I wasn't alone) was high due to being nervous. I suited up, and then it was time to hit the course running...
And I do mean running, we had to complete all the tasks in 6 minutes.
The clock started, and my time keeper kept right up with me. I grabbed the elevator pack (folded house bound together for easy caring on the shoulder) and headed up the 4 flights of stairs, carefully hitting every step and holding on the rail (time penalty if those were missed). At the top, I set down the pack, and headed over to the window ledge. There laid a hose. Hand over hand I pulled the hose through the window and into the room I was in. Once I got to the end, I had to lean out and actually pull the end over a lip in the concrete. I then picked the pack back up and headed back down the stairs. I dropped the pack at the required location and headed for the Sledgehammer drill. Simple task, strike a rubber pad, 40 times with a rubber mallet. I completed that quickly. After that, pick a ladder off of the ladder stand, walk it out around a cone, and hang it back up. Again, not a problem. The next step, was the hose pull. Sounds simple enough, pull a charged hose out past a line drawn on the concrete. I grabbed the hose, swung it over my shoulder and took off. I did really good out of the gate. The hose that was snaked out on the ground began to straighten out. I could see the line was in reach, but as soon as I went to cross it, the hose stopped and flew out of my hand. The hose had finished un-coiling and all that was left was for me to rotate the hydrant end of the hose my direction. A task I completed by turning around and pulling the hose. Task completed...on to the last one, the dummy drag. For this test, I had to drag a 135-40lbs dummy through the bay and out the door. I grabbed the dummy and began to drag him. Somewhere along the way, my feet got tangled up and I fell. I got up, grabbed the dummy and finished the course in 4:00 minutes. Not bad for the first time. They did a post-test blood pressure check, and sent us home.
I had done it and with that, the dream was escalated. I finally convinced myself that this may be what I need to be doing for a career. It would just take another 3 months before anyone knew anything....and when it finally did arrive, the news couldn't be better.
Here is a video of an agility test...In case you wanted to know. While different, it does show similar tasks.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Let's Get You Up to Speed (part 7).....
I remember it well. A letter in the mail. "Would you please report to station 2 for an interview with the O'Fallon Fire Protection Group's Volunteer program."
I was in Shock. Spring 2005 I drop an application off and was told by the chief that summer that no knew volunteers would be accepted until after the 1st of January. It was now March of 2006. I figured I was forgotten.
On April 1st, 2006, I got the birthday present of all birthday presents. An interview. I remember it well. I got all dressed up in a shirt and tie. They never told us what to wear or what to expect. I showed up, waited in line and talked to a few folks that had gathered around...
One by one, they called us downstairs. At the bottom of the stairs their was a door. I remember saying a quick prayer as I opened the door. I noticed the tables and chairs were set up in a u-shaped. One by one they all asked question after question. I did my best to make sure I was calm and that I clearly and honestly answered all their questions. I remember feeling very comfortable with my answers when I
left.
As I drove away, I got a call from my sister. I told her all about the interview. She wished me a happy birthday and a good luck with the firedepartment.
It would be a few more weeks before I heard some more good news.
I was in Shock. Spring 2005 I drop an application off and was told by the chief that summer that no knew volunteers would be accepted until after the 1st of January. It was now March of 2006. I figured I was forgotten.
On April 1st, 2006, I got the birthday present of all birthday presents. An interview. I remember it well. I got all dressed up in a shirt and tie. They never told us what to wear or what to expect. I showed up, waited in line and talked to a few folks that had gathered around...
One by one, they called us downstairs. At the bottom of the stairs their was a door. I remember saying a quick prayer as I opened the door. I noticed the tables and chairs were set up in a u-shaped. One by one they all asked question after question. I did my best to make sure I was calm and that I clearly and honestly answered all their questions. I remember feeling very comfortable with my answers when I
left.
As I drove away, I got a call from my sister. I told her all about the interview. She wished me a happy birthday and a good luck with the firedepartment.
It would be a few more weeks before I heard some more good news.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Let's Get You Up to Speed (part 6).....
It's amazing what a talk with a fire chief will do to a person. For the rest of the summer, I knew I was going to be a firefighter. I would pass firetrucks on the road, hear sirens while mowing the grass...and I would always say..."Won't be long now..soon I will be joining you all..." I took my new confidence and headed to EMT-B school.
Well, actually I didn't head anywhere. St. Louis Community College offered its EMT-B course online. We did all our homework and quizzes at home, and had our practices and tests on the Saturdays. 8 Saturdays of the Fall of 2005 semester were spent at the Community College. We met from 9 to 5 - 8 hours of emergency medical training. I soaked in as much as I could from our instructors (who happened to be firefighters). I would listen as they talked about their life experiences. It was a great way to learn. Hands on training from the hands of those actively in the field.
From splinting, to traction, to back boarding and CPR, it was a fall to remember. But emergency medical assistance was not the only thing introduced to me that fall. Two blocks to the south of the community college lies the only thing I really miss from St. Louis....The Hill. If you like sandwiches (and I do) then this is your heaven. 8 Saturdays we met. 8 sandwiches I ate. Everyone of them different, and everyone just as good as the next. If you go to St. Louis, do yourself a favor and eat lunch in the Hill Neighborhood. You won't forget it.
Towards the end of the semester, (and part of every EMT Class) we started our Ride-A-Longs.
Because I lived in St. Charles County, I decided to do all my ride-a-longs with the St. Charles County Ambulance District. I wish I could remember how many hours I had to do, but I know it was a lot. I remember the first day I went. I was nervous. I mean after all, I was going to go on calls with a real paramedic team. I was going to be a part of their day...watch what they did...help when they needed an extra hand. I remember when the alarm went off for the first time, my heart was racing as I hopped in the back of the ambulance, and we took off...sirens blazing. We were heading to a neighborhood just north of the station...the call? A two year old child in cardiac arrest. Unusual yes, but not in this case. I was told by the medics that this young boy had been struggling for a while and that this was the third or so time they had been called out within the last couple of months. Even with their warning, it was still a shock to see a two year old boy, lying on the dining room table receiving CPR. I mean...Kolsten was also two at the time....I helped out the best I could. The little boy recovered and I got to ride with him in the back of the ambulance to the hospital. We had a few other calls that day. But believe it or not, we spent most of the day playing Halo on the X-Box.
By the end of the semester, I was quite comfortable with the modules that we had learned and practiced. The first few days of January brought the practical portion of the National Registry Exam. While the test was a huge deal, I remained surprisingly calm. I nailed both parts of the test, and passed with ease. I then took a three month break, and waited to take the written part of the exam. It wouldn't be until March of 2006 that I took the written part. While I didn't do the best, I still passed. And a few weeks later I got my National EMT-B Certification.
2006 ushered in a ton of new experiences. I became a dad for the second time, I was putting up drywall in our newly constructed basement, I was promoted to production supervisor at my job, and I finally heard back from the O'Fallon Fire Protection District. They were ready for new volunteers and they were finally ready to speak with me...
Well, actually I didn't head anywhere. St. Louis Community College offered its EMT-B course online. We did all our homework and quizzes at home, and had our practices and tests on the Saturdays. 8 Saturdays of the Fall of 2005 semester were spent at the Community College. We met from 9 to 5 - 8 hours of emergency medical training. I soaked in as much as I could from our instructors (who happened to be firefighters). I would listen as they talked about their life experiences. It was a great way to learn. Hands on training from the hands of those actively in the field.
From splinting, to traction, to back boarding and CPR, it was a fall to remember. But emergency medical assistance was not the only thing introduced to me that fall. Two blocks to the south of the community college lies the only thing I really miss from St. Louis....The Hill. If you like sandwiches (and I do) then this is your heaven. 8 Saturdays we met. 8 sandwiches I ate. Everyone of them different, and everyone just as good as the next. If you go to St. Louis, do yourself a favor and eat lunch in the Hill Neighborhood. You won't forget it.
Towards the end of the semester, (and part of every EMT Class) we started our Ride-A-Longs.
Because I lived in St. Charles County, I decided to do all my ride-a-longs with the St. Charles County Ambulance District. I wish I could remember how many hours I had to do, but I know it was a lot. I remember the first day I went. I was nervous. I mean after all, I was going to go on calls with a real paramedic team. I was going to be a part of their day...watch what they did...help when they needed an extra hand. I remember when the alarm went off for the first time, my heart was racing as I hopped in the back of the ambulance, and we took off...sirens blazing. We were heading to a neighborhood just north of the station...the call? A two year old child in cardiac arrest. Unusual yes, but not in this case. I was told by the medics that this young boy had been struggling for a while and that this was the third or so time they had been called out within the last couple of months. Even with their warning, it was still a shock to see a two year old boy, lying on the dining room table receiving CPR. I mean...Kolsten was also two at the time....I helped out the best I could. The little boy recovered and I got to ride with him in the back of the ambulance to the hospital. We had a few other calls that day. But believe it or not, we spent most of the day playing Halo on the X-Box.
By the end of the semester, I was quite comfortable with the modules that we had learned and practiced. The first few days of January brought the practical portion of the National Registry Exam. While the test was a huge deal, I remained surprisingly calm. I nailed both parts of the test, and passed with ease. I then took a three month break, and waited to take the written part of the exam. It wouldn't be until March of 2006 that I took the written part. While I didn't do the best, I still passed. And a few weeks later I got my National EMT-B Certification.
2006 ushered in a ton of new experiences. I became a dad for the second time, I was putting up drywall in our newly constructed basement, I was promoted to production supervisor at my job, and I finally heard back from the O'Fallon Fire Protection District. They were ready for new volunteers and they were finally ready to speak with me...
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
The Last Test....I Think
Today I completed what I think was my last medical test. It was the Stress Test. From internet research and tips from friends, I found out that this was nothing more than a treadmill test.
Last week I was called from the Chattanooga Heart Institute. I was told when to arrive and on what date. So, at one o'clock I headed to my car, and made the trip over to Memorial Hospital.
I had my work clothes on, so I quickly changed my clothes in the parking lot (in the car of course). I brought wind pants, a tee-shirt and my running shoes.
I walked through the door, into the building, and was blown away by a large indoor water fountain. Very nice. I explained to the help desk that I needed to take the stress test and they directed me to elevators. I was still distracted by the enormous fountain. The elevator opened up to glass, with a great view of the fountain. I headed up to the third floor.
After I checked in, I sat down in the waiting room. I looked around and noticed that I was probably the only one under 50. I also noticed that they had a small drink area. I saw cups for coffee, water, and small soda fountain. I think it had Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite and Dr. Pepper. I was surprised to see a soda fountain at a Heart Institute, seeing that soda is part of the obesity problem and obesity is a big cause of cardiovascular disease...but I'm sure it has it place.
5 minutes later I was called back by a mid twenties tech. He noticed my Red The Flash Shirt. He must of really liked it, because he mentioned my shirt to everyone we came in contact with. I laughed.
He lead me to a room that contained a computer, a treadmill, a bed, a large shelf with a chair, and one giant window. He had me take my shirt off. He then cleaned several areas of my chest with alcohol. He then placed little patches with metal buttons in certain locations on my chest. He then connected electrodes to these buttons and strapped the wiring harness to my body. Attaching all the wiring and watching it squish all my fat together, really made me think that I need to start toning. I'm sure it wasn't a pretty site. I also put on a blood pressure cuff.
To top it all off, He informed me that he was going to have a visitor come in and train. I didn't care. I know I don't have six pack abs.
The test then started. I was told to walk on the treadmill for as long as I could take or until my heart rate hit the target of 189 beats per minute. Every three minutes a new stage would be reached. This increased the speed and the height of the treadmill. By stage 5, I was jogging, and finally had reached my target heart rate. I then had to sit and wait 5 minutes. During that time, a doctor walked in, looked at my charts, said everything was great, signed the form, and then left.
I had finished the test. I left the room, headed back through the waiting room, back down the great glass elevator, out the door, and headed back to work. Once back at the TFP parking lot, I changed back to my work clothes and headed back in. One hour is all it took.
I now wait until Next Thursday....Orientation day...
Last week I was called from the Chattanooga Heart Institute. I was told when to arrive and on what date. So, at one o'clock I headed to my car, and made the trip over to Memorial Hospital.
I had my work clothes on, so I quickly changed my clothes in the parking lot (in the car of course). I brought wind pants, a tee-shirt and my running shoes.
I walked through the door, into the building, and was blown away by a large indoor water fountain. Very nice. I explained to the help desk that I needed to take the stress test and they directed me to elevators. I was still distracted by the enormous fountain. The elevator opened up to glass, with a great view of the fountain. I headed up to the third floor.
After I checked in, I sat down in the waiting room. I looked around and noticed that I was probably the only one under 50. I also noticed that they had a small drink area. I saw cups for coffee, water, and small soda fountain. I think it had Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite and Dr. Pepper. I was surprised to see a soda fountain at a Heart Institute, seeing that soda is part of the obesity problem and obesity is a big cause of cardiovascular disease...but I'm sure it has it place.
5 minutes later I was called back by a mid twenties tech. He noticed my Red The Flash Shirt. He must of really liked it, because he mentioned my shirt to everyone we came in contact with. I laughed.
He lead me to a room that contained a computer, a treadmill, a bed, a large shelf with a chair, and one giant window. He had me take my shirt off. He then cleaned several areas of my chest with alcohol. He then placed little patches with metal buttons in certain locations on my chest. He then connected electrodes to these buttons and strapped the wiring harness to my body. Attaching all the wiring and watching it squish all my fat together, really made me think that I need to start toning. I'm sure it wasn't a pretty site. I also put on a blood pressure cuff.
To top it all off, He informed me that he was going to have a visitor come in and train. I didn't care. I know I don't have six pack abs.
The test then started. I was told to walk on the treadmill for as long as I could take or until my heart rate hit the target of 189 beats per minute. Every three minutes a new stage would be reached. This increased the speed and the height of the treadmill. By stage 5, I was jogging, and finally had reached my target heart rate. I then had to sit and wait 5 minutes. During that time, a doctor walked in, looked at my charts, said everything was great, signed the form, and then left.
I had finished the test. I left the room, headed back through the waiting room, back down the great glass elevator, out the door, and headed back to work. Once back at the TFP parking lot, I changed back to my work clothes and headed back in. One hour is all it took.
I now wait until Next Thursday....Orientation day...
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
The Physical of all Physicals
Today I spent most of the day getting ready for the start of my new journey. What I thought was going to be a routine physical, turned into an 8 hour extravaganza.
The early morning was rushed. Katrina and I got the kids up and dressed. I dropped them off at day care, got a splash of gas, and headed off to my appointment. I pulled into an empty parking lot a little before eight. I noticed the office was dark, so I waited a few minutes. Sure enough, the doors opened right at eight. I went in, introduced myself, and the physical got underway. Because the nurse was stuck in traffic, I was only able to have my blood pressure checked, my height and weight recorded, and my blood drawn. After a few minutes of paper work, I was told to head out for a chest x-ray.
9:15 I arrived at the Chattanooga Outpatient Clinic, checked in, and yes..filled out more paperwork. 40 minutes and two x-rays later, I'm heading back to finish my physical (or so I thought).
It was a little past 10, when I headed back through the door. There were a few more folks in the office. I was called back to the employee kitchen which also functioned as the hearing test room. After a few instructions, she shut the door on a small isolation booth..and away the test went. Three beeps here, a few clicks there and the test was over. And there I sat, in a small room. Waiting for someone to come back. Eventually, I went back into the waiting room.
11:00, I start the 1st part of the test. Did I forget to mention that the last time I went to the bathroom was 3:00 am. You see, I've had these physicals before. And one item on the list for sure is a drug test. I was going to be prepared. So I held it. All morning. After the drug test, I had a vision test, vital sign check, EKG check, and a breathalyzer. I was one test away from having phase 1 complete, when the lunch bell rang (well not really, but the staff was ready for lunch). So they kicked me out.
12:15, I went across the street to Burger King. What a lunch...a Jr. Wopper. What can you do. I also called work to let them know that I was going to be later than expected.
1:00, I went back inside the office. Instead of finishing up Phase 1, they ushered me to Phase 2. Phase 2 consisted of me taking off my clothes and putting on an opened back paper dress. What a site. The nurse did her tests, explained some things, and then placed me back into the waiting room.
2:00, I go in for the final test of Phase 1. The breathing test. Take a deep breath, and blow out through a tube. Three times. Finally I was done. I was given my paper work, and sent to the Chattanooga Fire Department's Supply Building.
3:20, I arrived at the front door of the supply center. From the note I received, I would be getting fitted for my SCBA Mask and Turnout gear. The fit for the mask was great. You put the mask on and completed several tasks...breathing normally, deep breathing, talking, etc.etc. From there, we gathered up a new pair of gloves, Turnout pants and coat, accessories, and a new pair of boots.
I've never been more excited to get custom fit gear. In O'Fallon, they did their best to get us gear that fit...but they only had what the had. I remember my boots, were too big. My feet would slide around in them. It made it really difficult to walk, let alone climb ladders. Today, they had boots that fit my feet. In fact, I changed sizes to get the best fit possible. What a great way to end the day.
4:35, I finally get to work and clock in.
8:35, I headed home for the night....All in all, a great day!
The early morning was rushed. Katrina and I got the kids up and dressed. I dropped them off at day care, got a splash of gas, and headed off to my appointment. I pulled into an empty parking lot a little before eight. I noticed the office was dark, so I waited a few minutes. Sure enough, the doors opened right at eight. I went in, introduced myself, and the physical got underway. Because the nurse was stuck in traffic, I was only able to have my blood pressure checked, my height and weight recorded, and my blood drawn. After a few minutes of paper work, I was told to head out for a chest x-ray.
9:15 I arrived at the Chattanooga Outpatient Clinic, checked in, and yes..filled out more paperwork. 40 minutes and two x-rays later, I'm heading back to finish my physical (or so I thought).
It was a little past 10, when I headed back through the door. There were a few more folks in the office. I was called back to the employee kitchen which also functioned as the hearing test room. After a few instructions, she shut the door on a small isolation booth..and away the test went. Three beeps here, a few clicks there and the test was over. And there I sat, in a small room. Waiting for someone to come back. Eventually, I went back into the waiting room.
11:00, I start the 1st part of the test. Did I forget to mention that the last time I went to the bathroom was 3:00 am. You see, I've had these physicals before. And one item on the list for sure is a drug test. I was going to be prepared. So I held it. All morning. After the drug test, I had a vision test, vital sign check, EKG check, and a breathalyzer. I was one test away from having phase 1 complete, when the lunch bell rang (well not really, but the staff was ready for lunch). So they kicked me out.
12:15, I went across the street to Burger King. What a lunch...a Jr. Wopper. What can you do. I also called work to let them know that I was going to be later than expected.
1:00, I went back inside the office. Instead of finishing up Phase 1, they ushered me to Phase 2. Phase 2 consisted of me taking off my clothes and putting on an opened back paper dress. What a site. The nurse did her tests, explained some things, and then placed me back into the waiting room.
2:00, I go in for the final test of Phase 1. The breathing test. Take a deep breath, and blow out through a tube. Three times. Finally I was done. I was given my paper work, and sent to the Chattanooga Fire Department's Supply Building.
3:20, I arrived at the front door of the supply center. From the note I received, I would be getting fitted for my SCBA Mask and Turnout gear. The fit for the mask was great. You put the mask on and completed several tasks...breathing normally, deep breathing, talking, etc.etc. From there, we gathered up a new pair of gloves, Turnout pants and coat, accessories, and a new pair of boots.
I've never been more excited to get custom fit gear. In O'Fallon, they did their best to get us gear that fit...but they only had what the had. I remember my boots, were too big. My feet would slide around in them. It made it really difficult to walk, let alone climb ladders. Today, they had boots that fit my feet. In fact, I changed sizes to get the best fit possible. What a great way to end the day.
4:35, I finally get to work and clock in.
8:35, I headed home for the night....All in all, a great day!
Monday, October 26, 2009
Let's Get You Up to Speed (part 5).....
On April 07, 2005, I received the e-mail on what I needed to do to begin my career as a Firefighter in St. Louis (see my last post). By April 20th, I had the information I needed to get registered for the next online EMT class starting in the Fall. On May 30th, I registered for EMT-121 at St. Louis Community College at Forrest Park. That class didn't begin until August. So I decided to take another step...
I e-mailed the Fire Chief of the O'Fallon Fire Protection District. And to my surprise I got a response:
From a e-mail dated 5/28/05:
"Keep up the good work. At this time it looks like we will not be putting
new volunteers on until January. Keep in touch. Don't let us forget you.
I would be interested in meeting you." - Chief Ballmann
I know...meet me? Little old me? Sure, I was bummed out about the volunteer wait, but the Chief wanted to meet me. I immediately contacted him back (he was on vacation so he asked me to contact him the first week in June. Because I wasn't going to miss this opportunity to get my foot in the door, I made sure to contact him back. We scheduled at time to meet, and on June 14th, 2009 at 9:00am, I made my way to Station 1.
The conversation was very casual. He asked about my education, my reasons for wanting to become a firefighter and my family. He told me I was on the right path, and as we ending the meeting, he told me that I needed to stay in touch. He didn't want me to fall through the cracks. To this day, I still think he is one of the reasons I got in the department as a volunteer. (but that is for a later post).
As I left, I felt better about my decision to pursue this dream of mine. The only thing left was to actually begin my EMT-B training. And in Mid August 2005, I did just that....
I e-mailed the Fire Chief of the O'Fallon Fire Protection District. And to my surprise I got a response:
From a e-mail dated 5/28/05:
"Keep up the good work. At this time it looks like we will not be putting
new volunteers on until January. Keep in touch. Don't let us forget you.
I would be interested in meeting you." - Chief Ballmann
I know...meet me? Little old me? Sure, I was bummed out about the volunteer wait, but the Chief wanted to meet me. I immediately contacted him back (he was on vacation so he asked me to contact him the first week in June. Because I wasn't going to miss this opportunity to get my foot in the door, I made sure to contact him back. We scheduled at time to meet, and on June 14th, 2009 at 9:00am, I made my way to Station 1.
The conversation was very casual. He asked about my education, my reasons for wanting to become a firefighter and my family. He told me I was on the right path, and as we ending the meeting, he told me that I needed to stay in touch. He didn't want me to fall through the cracks. To this day, I still think he is one of the reasons I got in the department as a volunteer. (but that is for a later post).
As I left, I felt better about my decision to pursue this dream of mine. The only thing left was to actually begin my EMT-B training. And in Mid August 2005, I did just that....
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Let's Get You Up to Speed (part 4).....
It was the summer of 2004, but instead of preparing for new job involving a truck and hoses, I was heading to Missouri. With Kolsten being 7 months or so, Katrina and I both agreed that we needed to be closer to our family. We were the only ones living so far away. We chose O'Fallon, MO, 30 Minutes to the west of Downtown St. Louis. It was a wise choice.
I got a job at Business Audio Plus as a creative consultant, Katrina as a computer teacher in Wentzville. We were both excited to get started. Katrina told me to contact St. Louis City's Fire protection district. I did this before we left. By the time we got set up in O'Fallon, I had received a response. They were currently NOT hiring, but kept my application on file. So again, my dreams firefighting career took a backseat.
It would be the Spring of 2005 before I thought of it again. Kolsten was at a in-home day care. His teacher had policeman for a husband. I had a conversation with him about his career and firefighting. He actually had a firefighter friend. I supplied a list of questions, he gave me answers. Here is what I found out:
To become a career firefighter in the St. Louis area you:
1. Have to be in the best shape of your life
2. Be a paramedic
3. Have your Firefighter 1 and 2
4. Have serious connections
5. Gain experience by volunteering
6. Have plenty of time to wait.....
So while a career firefighter may be years away, I thought I would accomplish the things that I could do...
And that's what lead me to EMT school....
I got a job at Business Audio Plus as a creative consultant, Katrina as a computer teacher in Wentzville. We were both excited to get started. Katrina told me to contact St. Louis City's Fire protection district. I did this before we left. By the time we got set up in O'Fallon, I had received a response. They were currently NOT hiring, but kept my application on file. So again, my dreams firefighting career took a backseat.
It would be the Spring of 2005 before I thought of it again. Kolsten was at a in-home day care. His teacher had policeman for a husband. I had a conversation with him about his career and firefighting. He actually had a firefighter friend. I supplied a list of questions, he gave me answers. Here is what I found out:
To become a career firefighter in the St. Louis area you:
1. Have to be in the best shape of your life
2. Be a paramedic
3. Have your Firefighter 1 and 2
4. Have serious connections
5. Gain experience by volunteering
6. Have plenty of time to wait.....
So while a career firefighter may be years away, I thought I would accomplish the things that I could do...
And that's what lead me to EMT school....
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Let's Get You Up to Speed (part 3).....
In 2003 I met the man who made this journey possible. I don't remember the exact month, but I do remember where. Katrina was pregnant and being first time parents, we attended Lamaze class. It just so happened that Jamie and Misty Ratchford were in our class. I kind of remember them sitting by us a few times, but other than that I don't think we ever spoke to them. Kolsten was born before the class ended, so we missed the last few classes. Had it not been for the wives, I don't think our friendship with Ratchfords would have panned out.
After I found out Jamie was a firefighter for the City of Chattanooga, my interest in becoming a firefighter sparked back up. I started obsessing about it. I went to the library and read books on how to train for tests. I started riding my bike long distances. I ran the track next door to work. I even got my old climbing gear out of the attic to practice tying knots (like that was going to get me in). I was determined to get in, and I thought (at the time) that Jamie could somehow help me, even though I lived in Georgia. He and I even kind of talked about it. He didn't know how serious I was, and then Katrina announced that she was ready to leave and head back home...to Illinois...
So instead of aiding me in my quest to become a firefighter, Jamie (and Jimmy...another big player in my journey) helped me pack the moving van, and the family and I moved to Missouri.
It's then that I thought, this may never work. But little did I know that God was planning this whole thing out. And what he had planned next, was exactly what I needed.....
After I found out Jamie was a firefighter for the City of Chattanooga, my interest in becoming a firefighter sparked back up. I started obsessing about it. I went to the library and read books on how to train for tests. I started riding my bike long distances. I ran the track next door to work. I even got my old climbing gear out of the attic to practice tying knots (like that was going to get me in). I was determined to get in, and I thought (at the time) that Jamie could somehow help me, even though I lived in Georgia. He and I even kind of talked about it. He didn't know how serious I was, and then Katrina announced that she was ready to leave and head back home...to Illinois...
So instead of aiding me in my quest to become a firefighter, Jamie (and Jimmy...another big player in my journey) helped me pack the moving van, and the family and I moved to Missouri.
It's then that I thought, this may never work. But little did I know that God was planning this whole thing out. And what he had planned next, was exactly what I needed.....
Friday, October 23, 2009
Let's Get You Up to Speed (part 2).....
I ended my last entry by smacking my biggest obstacle right in the face. I lived in Georgia, to be a firefighter for the City of Chattanooga, I needed to live in Tennessee. Well, that wasn't going to happen. We just bought a house. So I calmly packed the thought of being a firefighter in the back of my mind...but not completely away. I must of found every volunteer station in Catoosa County, but I never went any further than looking. And eventually I stopped looking all together. It seemed my dream to be a firefighter was nothing more than that...a dream. And I bought into that...hook, line, and sinker.
Than in the fall of 2003, Katrina and I met some folks that would forever change our lives....The Ratchfords.
(to be continued...)
Than in the fall of 2003, Katrina and I met some folks that would forever change our lives....The Ratchfords.
(to be continued...)
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Let's Get You Up to Speed (part 1).....
Because I have a few days before my journey really begins, what I want to do is go back, go way back, back into time.....
Well maybe not too far...how about 2003. I remember it clearly. I was sitting in the News Room at News 12 in Chattanooga. Sure I should have been working, but no, I was reading a newspaper (from a paper I would be working at later on down the road) from a big stack. I don't remember the section, but there it was...the new Chattanooga Fire Recruits demonstrating a live burn. I don't remember their names, but the article had them all listed. I thought to myself, wouldn't that be neat...having my name printed as one of the next firefighters for the City of Chattanooga. I finished reading the article, put down the paper, and found the nearest computer. To the internet I went. Finding as much information as I could on how to become a Chattanooga Firefighter. It sadly came to an end when I found out that....you had to live in Tennessee. Well that wasn't going to work...I just bought a house in North Georgia...Well one can dream right? If there was only a way...My mind kicked into gear, well maybe there is a way....
(to be continued...)
Well maybe not too far...how about 2003. I remember it clearly. I was sitting in the News Room at News 12 in Chattanooga. Sure I should have been working, but no, I was reading a newspaper (from a paper I would be working at later on down the road) from a big stack. I don't remember the section, but there it was...the new Chattanooga Fire Recruits demonstrating a live burn. I don't remember their names, but the article had them all listed. I thought to myself, wouldn't that be neat...having my name printed as one of the next firefighters for the City of Chattanooga. I finished reading the article, put down the paper, and found the nearest computer. To the internet I went. Finding as much information as I could on how to become a Chattanooga Firefighter. It sadly came to an end when I found out that....you had to live in Tennessee. Well that wasn't going to work...I just bought a house in North Georgia...Well one can dream right? If there was only a way...My mind kicked into gear, well maybe there is a way....
(to be continued...)
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