Day 126 - We all headed back to Amnicola Highway...20 of us from clinicals, and 9 from the halls. We moved back into our old classroom. More people required more room. It was the beginning of the burn week, so we all knew we would soon head to the house....but first we had some work to do...push-ups...and what for? A cadet forget their turnout gear....25 push ups later, we packed up and headed to the burn house.
Once at the house, we divided up into groups and started getting the house ready...remove shingles here, knock a hole in the wall there. The threat of rain shortened the afternoon, and we ended the day tarping the roof.
Day 127 - More of the same as we headed over to the burn house. We had to finish removing the shingles and tar paper, pick up the garbage, and other assorted chores. We also went through the house with no visibility (wax paper in the facepiece works great). My group went in a few times, each time completing the task....
Day 128 - Control ed burns started the day. We had groups set up in a rotating drills....Entry group, search group, Re-Hab, Medical, Staging, RIT, and PPV. My group started in the Entry group...While the controlled burns were nothing more than pallet fires, it was hot...the weather was hot...Hamilton County sent out a Rehab truck full of drinks and light snacks. There was also a Medic truck - just in case. We ended the day with roof catching on fire, and almost loosing the house. My group had to do some overhall in the attic...lots of insulation that was not removed....
Day 129 - More of the same drills, different groups....I learned two major things that day...check the door before opening it, and spray the ceiling first....
We had a short lecture on entering the front door on your knees...We ended the day ready to burn the house down....
Day 130 - The live burn - What an experience...We started the day cutting holes in the house. We also removed a large tree, blocking the view of the house. After the crowd gathered, the house went up. We waited a few minutes and took a picture. I was put in a group that approached the house and sprayed water on it (for the video). We then had to protect the fire truck. IT WAS HOT!!! The truck, the air, the FIRE!!
Click to See the Live Burn Video
After lunch, we soaked it down with water. Chief soaked us down with the deck gun. No complaints...the water felt great.
We also recieved our station assignments. Mine was Station 14 in St. Elmo!!
A great way to end the week!! We did lose one more cadet. We started with 32, and we cut 4 to 28.
Day 131 - We headed back to the training center for the last week of the academy. No one was sure what we would be doing. We did however know, that we had to take a EMT practical exam. We prepared three classroms, and by lunch everyone had taken the EMT practical. I got airway managememt and had no problem passing it. In face, all of us passed the exam. We spent the rest of the day getting paperwork done from our clinical week. We also practice graduation marching in the gym. We left looking forward to the end of the week.
Day 132 - We spent most of the day practicing in the gym. We set the gym up, practiced marching in and sitiing down. We tried to shoot the remaining shots for the video, but half of us were missing parts of our class A uniforms. Lunch was provided by the union.
Day 133 - We met at the training center and by 8:00, we were short one cadet. Seems he slept late. We were all punished with 25 pushups. Second to last day, and still doing pushups. We headed over to the church, practiced, and headed to lunch at Logan's. Another free lunch, curtousy of another orgranization. Five of us also made a pit stop at my house for a few songs of rock band. We headed back to the training center to wrap up the video and finaly get a complete set of Class A's. We also completed the rest of our clinical paperwork and gear sheets. All of us were ready for the last day.
Day 134 - The LAST day. We all met at the training center and then headed over to the church. My car was leaking a little oil, so it was a smoked filled trip to the church.
Once there we watched the video:
Click to see the 2009-01 Academy Video
We did a couple of more run throughs with the Chief, and sent home early afternoon. I took my oil spilling car to the shop, and $75 later, had it fixed. Around 4:00 I headed up to the church, for the last time as a recruit.
At Six, the graduation started. By 7, 28 of us became sworn firefighters of the Chattanooga Fire Department. We all celebrated in our own ways. I ate dinner with my family and enjoyed a night with them. It was a great way to wrap up the graduation.
Thus ends the academy journey...but as this one ends a new one begins. 6 months now turns to 25+ years!
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Day 120, 121, 122, 123, 124 & 125 - A Week ends A Week Begins
Day 120 - The last day of Academy Classroom. We started the day with dress out drills.
For me and a few other, it was just getting our gear out. Because we had already done the drill (done on Wednesday) we watched the others go through it. After that, we prepared for our Practice Practical. A few folks went before lunch. The rest of us waited in the gym.
Lunch was at an all you can eat sushi bar. It was good, but something I probably will NOT do again.
After lunch, the rest of us waited to be called up to the room. Dill and I (which is not surprise...he and I have had a few adventures throughout this academy together - Jewelery, Ladder Rescue, carries, runs) headed up for our turn, I pulled IV and nailed every part. Dill also did well....
The rest of the day was spent waiting for the rest of the folks to go. Finally, it was time to go...Academy Classroom complete....
Day 121 - Clinical Week begins. Monday I had my very first clinical. I slept horrible that morning. I kept waking up every 20 minutes. I think some of it was nerves. I didn't want to be late. Most of it was (however) caused by a sick bug.
I left the house around 6:15 and headed over to the Medic Hall. Once there I observed and helped set-up and check off the truck. As soon as that was completed, we got our first call. Chest Pain. We headed over to the location (lights and sirens of course) and once we got the patient loaded up in the ambulance, the medic put me to work. I started an INT (I did get blood all over the place, but I did get the IV started). I checked a blood sugar, and about the time I wrapped that I up...we were pulling in to the hospital. A quick change of the sheet, and we were heading back to "quarters".
No sooner had we closed the doors to the ambulance, when another call came in. This one was altered mental status. I checked a blood sugar in route to the hospital. I also saw the use of the stair chair. I also ran into my first responding fire company. I missed the chance to get an IV stick on this patient. We changed the sheet and I briefly talked with another cadet working his hospital shift. Soon enough, we were heading back to the station.
And at the station we stayed until late afternoon. In the meantime we washed the truck, watched a little t.v.,and ran some errands.
Call number three happened right after we were cancelled off of another. We were sent to a shoe store downtown. There we picked up a gentleman who was fine physically, but mentally not all there. He was very nice and very complementary. We transported him to the hospital.
We then headed to dinner at Fire Station 13. There we received our fourth call. A gentleman had fallen out of his wheel chair 1 week prior to the call. Now his knee had swollen up, and he could no longer move on his own. We transported him to the hospital.
After another cancellation, we filled the ambulance up with gas and headed back to Medic 11. I parted ways with the medics and headed for home. It was a great learning experience.....
Day 122 - It was Tuesday and lucky for me...I had the day off...and finally I slept...
Day 123 - Wednesday - The morning started early. I had to be at station location at 6am. I arrived at six, to find the lounge locked. It wasn't until 6:45 that I was told that the shift change was at seven. I met with the medic and the emt, and we headed over to East Ridge to wash the truck. Sounds simple enough, but this company was very particular about the ambulance washing. It took about 2 hours (including drive time). We got back around 10, and there we waited until 4:15...our 1st call. This ambulance company does nothing but transfers. So we transfered one patient to another hospital. On the way back, the ambulance was stopped by a homeless man. This gentleman was in a great deal of pain. From the looks of his arm...it may have been broken. Even though it was not their protocol to pick up folks off the street and take them to the hospital, we transported him.
After that, we returned to the station...and I headed home.
Day 124 - Thursday sent me to Medic 7. I got there just before seven. We spent the first two hours of the shift observing the cardiac cath lab at a local hospital. Very interesting. We returned to the hall, just to go out on our 1st call. A man fell off of a scaffolding. We packaged him up, and headed to the hospital. I started another IV in the ambulance...that was stick number two. We them grabbed a bite to eat, and headed back to the hall. Before we could close the door...in came call number 2. This was for a wreck on Shalloford and Gunbarrel. It was interesting flying down Gunbarrel in the back of an ambulance with lights and sirens going. We packaged this patient up, got her in the ambulance. There I got stick number 3.
We then ran a few other calls....a patient at a doctors office, who did not want to go to the hospital, but the doctor forced him against his will (we didn't transport him) and a guy who called 911 just for an ambulance ride (he didn't get his ride). We ended the day responding to a call that involved a robbery, wreck involving a cop car, and a tazing. Never did I think I would be standing in the middle of Interstate 75 (all lanes blocked) transporting a cop to the hospital.
We returned to the station and I went home. A busy day, though not a ton of calls.
Day 125 - Friday---the end of clinical week. I had a 7:00am call time to the ER. Not a ton went on, though I did get IV stick 4 and 5. One was on a young pregnant girl...who unfortunately cried when I stuck her. I only had a four hour shift, so around 11, I left. And with that...Clinical week ended. Next up...live burn!
For me and a few other, it was just getting our gear out. Because we had already done the drill (done on Wednesday) we watched the others go through it. After that, we prepared for our Practice Practical. A few folks went before lunch. The rest of us waited in the gym.
Lunch was at an all you can eat sushi bar. It was good, but something I probably will NOT do again.
After lunch, the rest of us waited to be called up to the room. Dill and I (which is not surprise...he and I have had a few adventures throughout this academy together - Jewelery, Ladder Rescue, carries, runs) headed up for our turn, I pulled IV and nailed every part. Dill also did well....
The rest of the day was spent waiting for the rest of the folks to go. Finally, it was time to go...Academy Classroom complete....
Day 121 - Clinical Week begins. Monday I had my very first clinical. I slept horrible that morning. I kept waking up every 20 minutes. I think some of it was nerves. I didn't want to be late. Most of it was (however) caused by a sick bug.
I left the house around 6:15 and headed over to the Medic Hall. Once there I observed and helped set-up and check off the truck. As soon as that was completed, we got our first call. Chest Pain. We headed over to the location (lights and sirens of course) and once we got the patient loaded up in the ambulance, the medic put me to work. I started an INT (I did get blood all over the place, but I did get the IV started). I checked a blood sugar, and about the time I wrapped that I up...we were pulling in to the hospital. A quick change of the sheet, and we were heading back to "quarters".
No sooner had we closed the doors to the ambulance, when another call came in. This one was altered mental status. I checked a blood sugar in route to the hospital. I also saw the use of the stair chair. I also ran into my first responding fire company. I missed the chance to get an IV stick on this patient. We changed the sheet and I briefly talked with another cadet working his hospital shift. Soon enough, we were heading back to the station.
And at the station we stayed until late afternoon. In the meantime we washed the truck, watched a little t.v.,and ran some errands.
Call number three happened right after we were cancelled off of another. We were sent to a shoe store downtown. There we picked up a gentleman who was fine physically, but mentally not all there. He was very nice and very complementary. We transported him to the hospital.
We then headed to dinner at Fire Station 13. There we received our fourth call. A gentleman had fallen out of his wheel chair 1 week prior to the call. Now his knee had swollen up, and he could no longer move on his own. We transported him to the hospital.
After another cancellation, we filled the ambulance up with gas and headed back to Medic 11. I parted ways with the medics and headed for home. It was a great learning experience.....
Day 122 - It was Tuesday and lucky for me...I had the day off...and finally I slept...
Day 123 - Wednesday - The morning started early. I had to be at station location at 6am. I arrived at six, to find the lounge locked. It wasn't until 6:45 that I was told that the shift change was at seven. I met with the medic and the emt, and we headed over to East Ridge to wash the truck. Sounds simple enough, but this company was very particular about the ambulance washing. It took about 2 hours (including drive time). We got back around 10, and there we waited until 4:15...our 1st call. This ambulance company does nothing but transfers. So we transfered one patient to another hospital. On the way back, the ambulance was stopped by a homeless man. This gentleman was in a great deal of pain. From the looks of his arm...it may have been broken. Even though it was not their protocol to pick up folks off the street and take them to the hospital, we transported him.
After that, we returned to the station...and I headed home.
Day 124 - Thursday sent me to Medic 7. I got there just before seven. We spent the first two hours of the shift observing the cardiac cath lab at a local hospital. Very interesting. We returned to the hall, just to go out on our 1st call. A man fell off of a scaffolding. We packaged him up, and headed to the hospital. I started another IV in the ambulance...that was stick number two. We them grabbed a bite to eat, and headed back to the hall. Before we could close the door...in came call number 2. This was for a wreck on Shalloford and Gunbarrel. It was interesting flying down Gunbarrel in the back of an ambulance with lights and sirens going. We packaged this patient up, got her in the ambulance. There I got stick number 3.
We then ran a few other calls....a patient at a doctors office, who did not want to go to the hospital, but the doctor forced him against his will (we didn't transport him) and a guy who called 911 just for an ambulance ride (he didn't get his ride). We ended the day responding to a call that involved a robbery, wreck involving a cop car, and a tazing. Never did I think I would be standing in the middle of Interstate 75 (all lanes blocked) transporting a cop to the hospital.
We returned to the station and I went home. A busy day, though not a ton of calls.
Day 125 - Friday---the end of clinical week. I had a 7:00am call time to the ER. Not a ton went on, though I did get IV stick 4 and 5. One was on a young pregnant girl...who unfortunately cried when I stuck her. I only had a four hour shift, so around 11, I left. And with that...Clinical week ended. Next up...live burn!
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Day 119 - Goodbye For Now....
Today was another low key day. We spent the morning enjoying a few EMT videos. We got a visit from the Chief. He talked a little bit about graduation and our future assignments. I pulled plaque detail at graduation. Another cadet and I will be handing the plaques out to the Chiefs.
After lunch we covered Weapons of Mass Destruction and did a few scenarios.
We made one more trek to Ralph's place for a quick but effective Kettle Bell workout...our last scheduled PT of the academy....
Tomorrow is the LAST day classroom. 120 days of classroom...done!!! Three weeks will remain....
After lunch we covered Weapons of Mass Destruction and did a few scenarios.
We made one more trek to Ralph's place for a quick but effective Kettle Bell workout...our last scheduled PT of the academy....
Tomorrow is the LAST day classroom. 120 days of classroom...done!!! Three weeks will remain....
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Day 118 - Where are we?
Today started out with dress outs in the gym...actually we only did one. We then did our favorite Philadelphia drill. Our group did fairly well.
We then waited in our old classroom for our one on one insurance meeting. When that failed we headed up stairs for a quick lecture on Ambulance Care and gaining entry.
After lunch and our "Fart" ice cream, we watched the documentary dealing with the firefighters of Ladder 1 during 9-11. I had seen it before, but always a great watch.
We finished up the day covering geriatrics and witnessed two scenarios.
I also had my one on one insurance meeting and took part in a wacky scenario involving a cadet dressed in drag...a very interesting day.
We then waited in our old classroom for our one on one insurance meeting. When that failed we headed up stairs for a quick lecture on Ambulance Care and gaining entry.
After lunch and our "Fart" ice cream, we watched the documentary dealing with the firefighters of Ladder 1 during 9-11. I had seen it before, but always a great watch.
We finished up the day covering geriatrics and witnessed two scenarios.
I also had my one on one insurance meeting and took part in a wacky scenario involving a cadet dressed in drag...a very interesting day.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Day 115, 116 & 117 - A Stick and the LAST Classroom Week
Day 115 - With Friday came another skills session. This time, we all had to catch a fire hydrant....(this meant another ride on a fire truck). I went on the first truck and had no problem with the hydrant. We did a few other activities for the camera (running the tower, flipping over a car, another car fire, and a few other things).
After a Krystal Lunch we did skills, scheduled our ambulance clinicals, and I got a second IV stick. Shaking and all, I easily got the vein.
Day 116 - Monday...the start of the last week of classroom. We took our final test, and we all did well. A positive note, no one failed a test. We went the entire academy, and no one failed a weekly test. We are the 1st academy to accomplish that!!!
We had lecture in the morning and skills in the afternoon. A few folks in the class had to retake a Haz-mat test...and were ready to do so...but had it canceled at the last moment...
Day 117 - Not a ton to report. Lecture in the morning, skills in the afternoon. We had Ralph and he had us carrying weights over our heads, doing pushups on basketballs, and dragging weights with our feet...
Tomorrow...dress outs
After a Krystal Lunch we did skills, scheduled our ambulance clinicals, and I got a second IV stick. Shaking and all, I easily got the vein.
Day 116 - Monday...the start of the last week of classroom. We took our final test, and we all did well. A positive note, no one failed a test. We went the entire academy, and no one failed a weekly test. We are the 1st academy to accomplish that!!!
We had lecture in the morning and skills in the afternoon. A few folks in the class had to retake a Haz-mat test...and were ready to do so...but had it canceled at the last moment...
Day 117 - Not a ton to report. Lecture in the morning, skills in the afternoon. We had Ralph and he had us carrying weights over our heads, doing pushups on basketballs, and dragging weights with our feet...
Tomorrow...dress outs
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Day 112, 113 & 114 - The end is near
Day 112 - Not only was the day IV stick day, but also 1 month till graduation. We spent most of the day sticking each other with 20 gauge needles. I managed to get my sticks in...two to be exact. The first one missed, but the second one brought out the blood.
My partner stuck me twice, but failed to get the IV started.
Ralph showed up at the end of the day for PT. We did some ab exercises. This involved us getting in various awkward positions, and as one cadet called said...he felt like an upside down turtle....
Day 113 - The morning started as usual...Dress out drill in the morning. This time we were left to ourselves to do head to head dress outs. Not one of my favorites, but we made it interesting. We had a prelims round. While I didn't win my prelim, I did improve my time to 1:18...picking up a whole 20 seconds. I also was not the slowest in the class this time.
We then had lecture (covering abdominal injuries) and continued throughout the afternoon doing various scenarios.
Day 114 - Today started out with lecture (abdominal injuries & skeletal injuries. Lt. wanted me to demonstrate the Traction splint. Problem was, is that is had never been put together. So after assembling it, I figured out how it worked, and away went the demonstration.
After our group lunch to Applebee's, we did skill stations (splinting) and prepared for Ralph.
Ralph had a simple course of 50 kettle bell swings, 10 pushups...followed by "swimming" across the gym floor, stopping four times at various intervals (accomplishing 50 total pushups)...then we had to do 100 rope swings....
All in a days work....
Tomorrow leaves only two Classroom friday's left...The END IS NEAR!
My partner stuck me twice, but failed to get the IV started.
Ralph showed up at the end of the day for PT. We did some ab exercises. This involved us getting in various awkward positions, and as one cadet called said...he felt like an upside down turtle....
Day 113 - The morning started as usual...Dress out drill in the morning. This time we were left to ourselves to do head to head dress outs. Not one of my favorites, but we made it interesting. We had a prelims round. While I didn't win my prelim, I did improve my time to 1:18...picking up a whole 20 seconds. I also was not the slowest in the class this time.
We then had lecture (covering abdominal injuries) and continued throughout the afternoon doing various scenarios.
Day 114 - Today started out with lecture (abdominal injuries & skeletal injuries. Lt. wanted me to demonstrate the Traction splint. Problem was, is that is had never been put together. So after assembling it, I figured out how it worked, and away went the demonstration.
After our group lunch to Applebee's, we did skill stations (splinting) and prepared for Ralph.
Ralph had a simple course of 50 kettle bell swings, 10 pushups...followed by "swimming" across the gym floor, stopping four times at various intervals (accomplishing 50 total pushups)...then we had to do 100 rope swings....
All in a days work....
Tomorrow leaves only two Classroom friday's left...The END IS NEAR!
Monday, April 19, 2010
Day 109, 110, & 111 -
Day 109 - Another day in EMT. Ralph had us and we did rope swings for 20 minutes our so.
Day 110 - It was Friday and time for something different. We started the morning out with a few drills. Our group had to raise a ladder and do a fifth floor search. We spent the rest of the day working on Bleeding and Shock management.
Day 111 - A new week, and only 5 weeks left. We started the day with a test. We quickly moved on to IV therapy. After a nice lunch time, we all practice our sticks on the fake arms.
Tomorrow is the real deal....
Day 110 - It was Friday and time for something different. We started the morning out with a few drills. Our group had to raise a ladder and do a fifth floor search. We spent the rest of the day working on Bleeding and Shock management.
Day 111 - A new week, and only 5 weeks left. We started the day with a test. We quickly moved on to IV therapy. After a nice lunch time, we all practice our sticks on the fake arms.
Tomorrow is the real deal....
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Day 108: Here we go again
Today we started the day with dress outs. This time, we all had new gear. It is going to take some getting used to. Zippers, Velcro, the stiffness. We did one regular dress out and then head to head. I didn't do so well. 1 minute 39 seconds....well under the two minute mark, but the longest of the class. O-well...it doesn't really matter anyway. Firefighters rarely get ready that quickly...
We moved on to OB/GYN in class. This was mostly a chapter on pregnancy and delivering babies. We took a break to get and fix our gear issues. I just needed another set of gloves and I got them today.
We took another break for lunch. This time we headed to a Chinese buffet in Hixson. Not a bad lunch for $5.
The afternoon consisted of assessments and getting batteries for our various SCBA pieces.
All in all a good day. Tomorrow we move to trauma...
We moved on to OB/GYN in class. This was mostly a chapter on pregnancy and delivering babies. We took a break to get and fix our gear issues. I just needed another set of gloves and I got them today.
We took another break for lunch. This time we headed to a Chinese buffet in Hixson. Not a bad lunch for $5.
The afternoon consisted of assessments and getting batteries for our various SCBA pieces.
All in all a good day. Tomorrow we move to trauma...
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Day 107 : Another one down
Today was an interesting day. While most of the day was spent going over Abuse, we did take time to remember our latest casualty. We are now down to 20 in our class. 20 cadets and 9 sworn firefighters will hopefully graduate on the the 20th of May.
We ate lunch at Moe's.
PT was interesting. More adventures for the camera. It was one of Ralph's station drills...swing 55 lbs kettle bells 50 times, pull ourselves across the gym using rope, swing dumbells 25 times (each arm) and do a seal walk pushup combo station.
Tomorrow we have dress outs in our new gear...should be interesting!!
I would also like to congratulate all the soon to be fathers. We have two girls, one boy, and one unknown. Who knows, these unborn children may be the next firefighters for the City of Chattanooga...
We ate lunch at Moe's.
PT was interesting. More adventures for the camera. It was one of Ralph's station drills...swing 55 lbs kettle bells 50 times, pull ourselves across the gym using rope, swing dumbells 25 times (each arm) and do a seal walk pushup combo station.
Tomorrow we have dress outs in our new gear...should be interesting!!
I would also like to congratulate all the soon to be fathers. We have two girls, one boy, and one unknown. Who knows, these unborn children may be the next firefighters for the City of Chattanooga...
Monday, April 12, 2010
Day 106 - A Productive Day
We started the day right at 8. Our first task of the day was to study and pass an EMT exam. We all did. Next we had to get our turn-out gear ready to be turned back in. I gathered up my pants, took off the suspenders, and placed it all on top of my bag. Once we had that completed, Captain had a few words for us in the gym. It was punishment day for a misplaced piece of gear. Seems Captain didn't like my suggestion of Side-straddle-hops (Jumping Jacks), so the guilty cadet had to do 50 push-ups. After the task was completed, we headed upstairs for lecture.
After lecture we headed to ASR in East Ridge. There we tried on our Class A pants, shirt and coat. We were also given our hat (which mine didn't fit), dress shoes, station shoes, and dress pants. We then headed over to a lunch buffet....it was very good.
After taking the long way back to the training center, we headed to the gym to trade in our old turnouts for brand new ones.
The new turn outs fit well. It will take some getting used to. I no longer have to worry about buttons or snaps....just a zipper and velcro...
The rest of the day was spent on scenarios. I did stop by and pick up the kids in my new turnouts. They loved it (and so did I).
I also passed my two Hazmat Tests...which is a relief in the sense that I will not have to retake them.
After lecture we headed to ASR in East Ridge. There we tried on our Class A pants, shirt and coat. We were also given our hat (which mine didn't fit), dress shoes, station shoes, and dress pants. We then headed over to a lunch buffet....it was very good.
After taking the long way back to the training center, we headed to the gym to trade in our old turnouts for brand new ones.
The new turn outs fit well. It will take some getting used to. I no longer have to worry about buttons or snaps....just a zipper and velcro...
The rest of the day was spent on scenarios. I did stop by and pick up the kids in my new turnouts. They loved it (and so did I).
I also passed my two Hazmat Tests...which is a relief in the sense that I will not have to retake them.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Day 105 - A Nice Surprise
Day 105 - We started the day getting ready in the gym for dress outs. We got our gear and set up in the gym. After a few minutes, the police came in and booted us out. Captain told us to put our stuff back in the resource building, and head up to the classroom. We did as we were told. A few minutes later we dove into Environmental Issues. After 20 minutes or so of lecture, we were interrupted for...and guesses??? Yes, that's right dress outs. We headed back out to the resource building to get our gear. Instead of the gym, we did dress outs outside. We did three drills...all three went very well and on the last one, I was one of the first done. Having the new spider on my mask really made the difference....NO MORE TUCKING!!!
After dress outs, we put our stuff away, and headed to Supply. There we received our Class B uniforms....VERY EXCITED!!! Katrina liked it as well and took my picture.
The rest of the morning was spent on lecture. We took a break for lunch, and finished up the day outside doing Scenarios.
A very awesome day.....My name on a fire shirt.
Monday we get our NEW TURNOUT GEAR and we try on our Class A's!!!
Things are shaping up very nice!!!
After dress outs, we put our stuff away, and headed to Supply. There we received our Class B uniforms....VERY EXCITED!!! Katrina liked it as well and took my picture.
The rest of the morning was spent on lecture. We took a break for lunch, and finished up the day outside doing Scenarios.
A very awesome day.....My name on a fire shirt.
Monday we get our NEW TURNOUT GEAR and we try on our Class A's!!!
Things are shaping up very nice!!!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Day 103 & 104 - Stinking up the Turnouts
One thing I think we all agree on....Thank god we did our Fire training in November, January and February.....
Day 103 - We started the day off with dress out drills. One two minute dress out, followed by a trip up the tower, through the window, and through the tower. We then undressed, and did it all again. This time we added a trip through part of the confinement tubes. We had to exit the tubes by pulling ourselves out of a manhole.
Once we de-funked ourselves, headed upstairs for some classroom training on Allergic reactions. After lunch we did assessments for the rest of the day. I practiced administering shots.
Day 104 - The entire morning was spent on poisons and toxins. We concluded the morning with a quick power point on Venomous snakes. After lunch we did assessments.
PT was the same as Tuesday, except this time it was recorded for the video. So to ham up the video, we performed in our turnouts.
Day 103 - We started the day off with dress out drills. One two minute dress out, followed by a trip up the tower, through the window, and through the tower. We then undressed, and did it all again. This time we added a trip through part of the confinement tubes. We had to exit the tubes by pulling ourselves out of a manhole.
Once we de-funked ourselves, headed upstairs for some classroom training on Allergic reactions. After lunch we did assessments for the rest of the day. I practiced administering shots.
Day 104 - The entire morning was spent on poisons and toxins. We concluded the morning with a quick power point on Venomous snakes. After lunch we did assessments.
PT was the same as Tuesday, except this time it was recorded for the video. So to ham up the video, we performed in our turnouts.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Day 102 - The Furniture Moving, Cursing, Care Providing Cadets
The day started with a trip over to Administration. Lieutenant gave us a pre-warning that our day may NOT be as good as we were hoping for. Our walk over to admin was a quazi-nervous walk, and our sitting in the War Room didn't help matters any. But all we had to do is move office furniture from one room to another. I even helped set up the computers in the new offices. I guess old habits die hard.
After our walk back to the training center, some of us took a bathroom break, others headed back up to the classroom. I took a potty break. I mention this, because this break is going to be important....read on.
Once back in the classroom, we hit the books and started altered mental status. After about twenty minutes or so, lieutenant had to take a five minute break. After about 10 minutes or so, we were greeted by Captain and another Lieutenant. The asked us if anyone had been in the bathroom rattling of curse words. None of us recalled doing that, so........we all ended up lined up in the gym. 1st round - twenty pushups - no one spoke up. 2nd round - twenty pushups - Still no one talking. 3rd round twenty-five squat thrusts - no one talking. 4th round twenty-five squat thrusts - still no one talking. We were then left alone for five minutes to discuss our situation. 5th round - twenty five mountain climbers...no one confesses. 6th round - another set of 25 mtn. climbers...no one spoke. We were then sent to a brief lunch.
After lunch, we continued on with Altered Mental Status. I was chosen to do the last assessment of the day. As everyone crowded around, lieutenant received a phone call. Seemed someone needed assistance in the bathroom downstairs. Five of us and lieutenant grabbed the EMT bag and headed down. We all ended up assisting the patient. It was a great learning experience....
PT was fun as well. We went outside to the drill ground. Ralph had us stretch out a 100 foot section of 4 inch hose by running it down to a set cone. After we reached the cone, we pulled the hose down towards us. Once the hose was past the cone, we dropped the hose and ran up and down the tower. We did this three times.
Tomorrow should be interesting...We were told to bring extra clothes because the 1st hour of work, may be a tough one....Time shall see
After our walk back to the training center, some of us took a bathroom break, others headed back up to the classroom. I took a potty break. I mention this, because this break is going to be important....read on.
Once back in the classroom, we hit the books and started altered mental status. After about twenty minutes or so, lieutenant had to take a five minute break. After about 10 minutes or so, we were greeted by Captain and another Lieutenant. The asked us if anyone had been in the bathroom rattling of curse words. None of us recalled doing that, so........we all ended up lined up in the gym. 1st round - twenty pushups - no one spoke up. 2nd round - twenty pushups - Still no one talking. 3rd round twenty-five squat thrusts - no one talking. 4th round twenty-five squat thrusts - still no one talking. We were then left alone for five minutes to discuss our situation. 5th round - twenty five mountain climbers...no one confesses. 6th round - another set of 25 mtn. climbers...no one spoke. We were then sent to a brief lunch.
After lunch, we continued on with Altered Mental Status. I was chosen to do the last assessment of the day. As everyone crowded around, lieutenant received a phone call. Seemed someone needed assistance in the bathroom downstairs. Five of us and lieutenant grabbed the EMT bag and headed down. We all ended up assisting the patient. It was a great learning experience....
PT was fun as well. We went outside to the drill ground. Ralph had us stretch out a 100 foot section of 4 inch hose by running it down to a set cone. After we reached the cone, we pulled the hose down towards us. Once the hose was past the cone, we dropped the hose and ran up and down the tower. We did this three times.
Tomorrow should be interesting...We were told to bring extra clothes because the 1st hour of work, may be a tough one....Time shall see
Monday, April 5, 2010
Day 99, 100 & 101 - All in a Days Work
Day 99 - EMT all day...We covered Patient Assessments and Respiratory Distress. As EMTs for the fire department, we are allowed to give 2.5 m/ls of albuterol. We discussed the method of administrating, and well as other Respiratory issues. No PT.
Day 100 - A special day. My birthday. We spent the morning in our turnouts. Each academy has a video created for them, about them. Our videographer needed a few extra shots. We were all divided into three groups and given tasks. My group was sent over to the vehicles. Part of our group worked on extrications. The rest of us prepped a car for a car fire. I'll be honest...I stayed low key during the extrication shots. I wanted to do the car fire. So when the time came around, four us loaded up on a fire truck driven by the captain. He pulled us around back, turned on all the lights, sirens and horns, mashed the gas and took off towards the fire. The first two cadets jumped off and hooked up the hydrant. My partner and I took a short ride to the car fire, jumped off the truck, grabbed the hose, and went to town. It was a fun way to end the morning.
We spent the rest of the day working on patient assessments.
For additional video footage, we were sent to Ralph's. There he introduced us to the tires. Three BIG tires. The first station involved us flipping over a 200 pound tire (with one arm), jumping through it, and then flipping it back over (using the opposite arm). At the next station we flipped over a 400 pound tire (one at a time in groups of six) up and down the gym floor. The last station did the same exercise as above, but upped the tire weight to 500 pounds.
Our second round of tires had us flipping over and jumping through each tire in sequence. So each set consisted of 3 flips and 3 jumps. We did 3 or 4 sets a piece.
It was a great way to end the week.
Day 101: Not much to the day. We took an EMT test, talked about Cardiovascular issues, did a few assessments, and then had a nice run at the Riverpark. A very relaxed Monday....
Day 100 - A special day. My birthday. We spent the morning in our turnouts. Each academy has a video created for them, about them. Our videographer needed a few extra shots. We were all divided into three groups and given tasks. My group was sent over to the vehicles. Part of our group worked on extrications. The rest of us prepped a car for a car fire. I'll be honest...I stayed low key during the extrication shots. I wanted to do the car fire. So when the time came around, four us loaded up on a fire truck driven by the captain. He pulled us around back, turned on all the lights, sirens and horns, mashed the gas and took off towards the fire. The first two cadets jumped off and hooked up the hydrant. My partner and I took a short ride to the car fire, jumped off the truck, grabbed the hose, and went to town. It was a fun way to end the morning.
We spent the rest of the day working on patient assessments.
For additional video footage, we were sent to Ralph's. There he introduced us to the tires. Three BIG tires. The first station involved us flipping over a 200 pound tire (with one arm), jumping through it, and then flipping it back over (using the opposite arm). At the next station we flipped over a 400 pound tire (one at a time in groups of six) up and down the gym floor. The last station did the same exercise as above, but upped the tire weight to 500 pounds.
Our second round of tires had us flipping over and jumping through each tire in sequence. So each set consisted of 3 flips and 3 jumps. We did 3 or 4 sets a piece.
It was a great way to end the week.
Day 101: Not much to the day. We took an EMT test, talked about Cardiovascular issues, did a few assessments, and then had a nice run at the Riverpark. A very relaxed Monday....
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Day 98 - More Patientassessments...
Very quick and to the point. We had lecture on communication and documentation. After a great lunch at Zaxby's, we did patient assessments and blood pressures.
We took a ride to Ralph's place and did the famous 4-minute drills. It was 16 hard minutes.
We took a ride to Ralph's place and did the famous 4-minute drills. It was 16 hard minutes.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Day 97 - Monday, Monday, Monday
Today started the third and final short week of the academy. We began the day practicing skills. We brought out the combie tube simulator and the KED. After a few attempts, we headed upstairs for our test. After a quick review, we all took the test, and we all passed....another 100. We got started with lecture at 10:30. We broke for lunch at 11:45. After a quick lunch, a short game of home run derby, and another few minutes of break time, we all headed to the gym for patient assessment. For the next 3 hours everyone took turns practicing their assessments.
PT was once again postponed to Wednesday. Tomorrow is a Ralph day.
PT was once again postponed to Wednesday. Tomorrow is a Ralph day.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Day 96 - Another Day Down
Friday began like the rest of the week. Classroom in the morning, skills in the afternoon. Today it was patient assessment day. We covered half the book work, received our practice sheets, and drilled them in during skill time. I've been helping Lieutenant teach the skill stations. It's actually great...Helping others learn the material ingrains it in my head.
Our PT run was postponed, but will get picked back up on Monday.
Our PT run was postponed, but will get picked back up on Monday.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Day 95 - Down the chute
Today was another great day. We started in the classroom (luckily without any stories) with some lecture on airway. We broke for lunch and 15 of us all went with Lieutenant to Amigo's. I has the Speedy Gonzales....always a winner. Isn't is funny how every Mexican Restaurant you go into has the Speedy? Cancun, Amigos, They all have that same dish.
After lunch, it was skill sets with the oxygen tank, combie Tube, KED, and the IT tubes. Lieutenant is keeping me busy. While he teaches one group, I teach the other. Luckily I know this stuff. Hopefully I'm doing a good job.
Tomorrow...Patient assessment...
After lunch, it was skill sets with the oxygen tank, combie Tube, KED, and the IT tubes. Lieutenant is keeping me busy. While he teaches one group, I teach the other. Luckily I know this stuff. Hopefully I'm doing a good job.
Tomorrow...Patient assessment...
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Day 94 - Backboarding Fun
Today was a relaxed day. We started the day with some interesting discussion on ethical issues. Some how those discussion turned to weird fetishes and ice fishing....Something you had to be in the room to really understand.
We then had instruction on moving and transporting patients. We then broke for lunch.
After lunch, we put our skills to the test. Because of my past experiences, lieutenant called on my to aid in demonstrating. Having not really used a stretcher, I was a little unsure on all the levers and such. It was easy to grasp. We split up into two groups. Our first task was to extricate a patient out of a vehicle using a backboard. This was an easy task, and one I remembered.
The second task was loading and unloading patients from the back of an ambulance. After a few tries, I had no problem doing this task.
We ended the day watching a continuing education video.
Tomorrow we move on to airway...
We then had instruction on moving and transporting patients. We then broke for lunch.
After lunch, we put our skills to the test. Because of my past experiences, lieutenant called on my to aid in demonstrating. Having not really used a stretcher, I was a little unsure on all the levers and such. It was easy to grasp. We split up into two groups. Our first task was to extricate a patient out of a vehicle using a backboard. This was an easy task, and one I remembered.
The second task was loading and unloading patients from the back of an ambulance. After a few tries, I had no problem doing this task.
We ended the day watching a continuing education video.
Tomorrow we move on to airway...
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Day 90, 91, 92 & 93 - EMT and the Test of all Tests
Here are the last four days...
Day 90 - Brought the beginning of EMT. We started in with History of EMT. Mostly a lecture day and some power point slides. We ended the day with a Ralph workout. Different stations this time - more hose waves, a simulated heavy shovel, pushup rows, and a weighted ladder raise.
Day 91 - The 2nd day of EMT. Two chapters this time. EMT responsibilities and EMT ethics. Not much to the day. We ended the week with no PT.
Day 92 - EMT Day three....Human Anatomy. We covered a whole bunch of material in half the day. After lunch, we took our surprise Weekly Test. I say surprise, because we did NOT expect it. No biggie. We all did well.
We ended the day with 50 rep exercises. Tired, we all headed home.
Day 93 - Today was our State Haz mat tests. Unsure of what we were expected to know, one by one we were all escorted outside for our practical. Once there, we were told our scenario. I recited my steps word for word. I then had to pick up a charged hoseline, open it to a fog stream, and apply it to extinguisher fog. It was actually quite fun. Captain kept spraying it high and low, and I would bank it down with the fog stream. After that, we had a 5 minute dress out drill to complete out practical.
We all headed to lunch.
When we got back, we headed back downstairs for our written test. We actually had to take two tests. A haz mat awareness and a Haz Mat operations test. If you remember, we passed a practical and a written test to become Haz-mat Technician(a level higher than these tests) trained, but that's neither here nor there.
We filled out our two scantrons and began the test. It was soon evident that these tests were not going to be easy. 150 questions later, we all drug ourselves up the stairs with stunned looks on our faces. That was by far one of the toughest tests I have taken.
We ended the day with a push-up, sit-up, two mile run test. I completed 50 pushups in two minutes, 77 situps in two minutes, and a two mile run in 16 min 35 seconds. Not bad. I should have done more situps. I didn't speed up in time to complete more.
More emt tomorrow....
Day 90 - Brought the beginning of EMT. We started in with History of EMT. Mostly a lecture day and some power point slides. We ended the day with a Ralph workout. Different stations this time - more hose waves, a simulated heavy shovel, pushup rows, and a weighted ladder raise.
Day 91 - The 2nd day of EMT. Two chapters this time. EMT responsibilities and EMT ethics. Not much to the day. We ended the week with no PT.
Day 92 - EMT Day three....Human Anatomy. We covered a whole bunch of material in half the day. After lunch, we took our surprise Weekly Test. I say surprise, because we did NOT expect it. No biggie. We all did well.
We ended the day with 50 rep exercises. Tired, we all headed home.
Day 93 - Today was our State Haz mat tests. Unsure of what we were expected to know, one by one we were all escorted outside for our practical. Once there, we were told our scenario. I recited my steps word for word. I then had to pick up a charged hoseline, open it to a fog stream, and apply it to extinguisher fog. It was actually quite fun. Captain kept spraying it high and low, and I would bank it down with the fog stream. After that, we had a 5 minute dress out drill to complete out practical.
We all headed to lunch.
When we got back, we headed back downstairs for our written test. We actually had to take two tests. A haz mat awareness and a Haz Mat operations test. If you remember, we passed a practical and a written test to become Haz-mat Technician(a level higher than these tests) trained, but that's neither here nor there.
We filled out our two scantrons and began the test. It was soon evident that these tests were not going to be easy. 150 questions later, we all drug ourselves up the stairs with stunned looks on our faces. That was by far one of the toughest tests I have taken.
We ended the day with a push-up, sit-up, two mile run test. I completed 50 pushups in two minutes, 77 situps in two minutes, and a two mile run in 16 min 35 seconds. Not bad. I should have done more situps. I didn't speed up in time to complete more.
More emt tomorrow....
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Day 88 & 89: Mark 1's and a Day with the Chief
Day 88: Not a whole lot happened today. We did have a short class on Mark 1 kits. For those of who may not know about these, they are a last resort survival tool. Should a Nerve Agent get spread around, you take one of these kits and inject yourself in the legs. Fun times. We got to practice with the training shots.
The rest of the day we prepared for EMT class, and ended our day with a Ralph Drill:
Wave two 1 3/4" hose lines 100 times (50 per arm), run to the other end of gym, pick up weights and seal walk back carrying the weights, run back to the other end, pull a weighted dummy across the gym via a rope, pull the dummy back to the other side, end the drill with 50 sit-ups.
Day 89: Today we started the day helping Captain pack away the Haz-Mat Suites. We then were told by Chief to head to the gym for dress outs. We did two dress outs, each time he would check us to make sure everything was in it's proper place. After my second one, he said "Good Job Mr. Keene..." It was nice to hear that. I'm sure all of us appreciated that. We then dressed out one more time, and headed out to the drill ground. There we climbed the tower, walked around the ventilation station, climbed up a ladder, and then went through the confinement tubes (something we have all wanted to do).
We then headed back into the classroom for some Haz Mat test preparation. Apparently we have more Haz-Mat to cover.
After lunch (and a nice dark nap in the classroom), Chief went over some slides and then went into some of his "war" stories. It was very interesting to hear his experiences.
We ended the day in PT with Lieutenant. We even had an audience.
Tomorrow...I think EMT starts...
The rest of the day we prepared for EMT class, and ended our day with a Ralph Drill:
Wave two 1 3/4" hose lines 100 times (50 per arm), run to the other end of gym, pick up weights and seal walk back carrying the weights, run back to the other end, pull a weighted dummy across the gym via a rope, pull the dummy back to the other side, end the drill with 50 sit-ups.
Day 89: Today we started the day helping Captain pack away the Haz-Mat Suites. We then were told by Chief to head to the gym for dress outs. We did two dress outs, each time he would check us to make sure everything was in it's proper place. After my second one, he said "Good Job Mr. Keene..." It was nice to hear that. I'm sure all of us appreciated that. We then dressed out one more time, and headed out to the drill ground. There we climbed the tower, walked around the ventilation station, climbed up a ladder, and then went through the confinement tubes (something we have all wanted to do).
We then headed back into the classroom for some Haz Mat test preparation. Apparently we have more Haz-Mat to cover.
After lunch (and a nice dark nap in the classroom), Chief went over some slides and then went into some of his "war" stories. It was very interesting to hear his experiences.
We ended the day in PT with Lieutenant. We even had an audience.
Tomorrow...I think EMT starts...
Monday, March 15, 2010
Day 87: The Second Wave
With the EMT-9 gone and the weekend behind us, we started on what I like to call the Second Wave. Most of the second wave will consist of EMT class, but first we have to get through this week.
We arrived to gym being all out of wack. Apparently they had something going on over the weekend. The tables were gone, the blue suits thrown to the side, our name tags littered here and there. Someone had started to the moping process, and since it's been about three weeks or so...I jumped in to help.
We were called to the our new home. The upper classroom (AKA the EMT room). After a really good laugh from the lieutenant, I headed to our new space. It didn't take long for us to find our seats. The Haz-Mat Captain came in and gave us our tests....again a fairly simple test....I missed one. I say it was simple, but maybe that's because I actually retained the information.....
After the test we were called back up to the classroom, ran over the coals by captain, sent out to get our gear, and before you know it...two dress outs had been completed.
We then helped load the Haz-Mat Trailers. The rest of the day was spent talking about Domestic Violence...both on the job and off. We watched a view videos that were pretty dramatic. It's hard to believe that Domestic Violence goes on, but it is one the main reasons women visit the emergency room.
And guess what? NO PT!....I was dreading this day...and for no reason.
Tomorrow...Mark 1 kits and Outlook? Who knows...
We arrived to gym being all out of wack. Apparently they had something going on over the weekend. The tables were gone, the blue suits thrown to the side, our name tags littered here and there. Someone had started to the moping process, and since it's been about three weeks or so...I jumped in to help.
We were called to the our new home. The upper classroom (AKA the EMT room). After a really good laugh from the lieutenant, I headed to our new space. It didn't take long for us to find our seats. The Haz-Mat Captain came in and gave us our tests....again a fairly simple test....I missed one. I say it was simple, but maybe that's because I actually retained the information.....
After the test we were called back up to the classroom, ran over the coals by captain, sent out to get our gear, and before you know it...two dress outs had been completed.
We then helped load the Haz-Mat Trailers. The rest of the day was spent talking about Domestic Violence...both on the job and off. We watched a view videos that were pretty dramatic. It's hard to believe that Domestic Violence goes on, but it is one the main reasons women visit the emergency room.
And guess what? NO PT!....I was dreading this day...and for no reason.
Tomorrow...Mark 1 kits and Outlook? Who knows...
Friday, March 12, 2010
Day 86: The End for Two
The last day of Haz-mat. The day started with a quick review for our final exam. This involved all 30 of us giving a short speech on one of the questions. We were given our topic on Wednesday and today we presented it to the class. Mine was on Flammable properties. Up I went, and a speech I gave.
After the speech and a short break, we took our test. No worries. I missed one.
After a the test, we headed to lunch. Today was Sushi at Green Life. A different crowd, but very enjoyable.
After lunch we prepared for our final practical. Again, we had a truck leak. This time, my group was in charge of decon. If you have seen the video, this involved setting up and washing the folks that had made entry to the hot (accident scene) zone. We had one entry, and then the skies opened up. We had to cut our practical short due to lightening and heavy rain. Of course the sun came out after we got the entire scene cleaned up.
After a brief de-briefing, we cleaned up and got ready to head home. It was the end of level A's, the end of fun practicals, and the end of Haz-mat.
Today, was the end of the academy for 9 of our classmates, cadets, and friends. They were sworn in as Chattanooga Firefighters and given assignments. They will be missed, but it won't be long before the rest of us will join in their ranks.
Rush, Guerrieri, Swindell, Hensley, Bishop, Battle, Bryant, Garcia and Muse...good luck, be safe, and I (as well as others I'm sure) will be praying for you every day.
See you soon...
I thought I would post this picture of a few of us at dinner the other night. This is what firefighting is all about....
After the speech and a short break, we took our test. No worries. I missed one.
After a the test, we headed to lunch. Today was Sushi at Green Life. A different crowd, but very enjoyable.
After lunch we prepared for our final practical. Again, we had a truck leak. This time, my group was in charge of decon. If you have seen the video, this involved setting up and washing the folks that had made entry to the hot (accident scene) zone. We had one entry, and then the skies opened up. We had to cut our practical short due to lightening and heavy rain. Of course the sun came out after we got the entire scene cleaned up.
After a brief de-briefing, we cleaned up and got ready to head home. It was the end of level A's, the end of fun practicals, and the end of Haz-mat.
Today, was the end of the academy for 9 of our classmates, cadets, and friends. They were sworn in as Chattanooga Firefighters and given assignments. They will be missed, but it won't be long before the rest of us will join in their ranks.
Rush, Guerrieri, Swindell, Hensley, Bishop, Battle, Bryant, Garcia and Muse...good luck, be safe, and I (as well as others I'm sure) will be praying for you every day.
See you soon...
I thought I would post this picture of a few of us at dinner the other night. This is what firefighting is all about....
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Day 84 & 85: Two Entries and a Locomotive
Day 84: We started the day with a review of knowledge. My group than made entry into a hazardous environment involving a victim and three leaking drums. It was quite the experience being in Level A's and doing a rescue. It was a great learning tool. We spent the rest of the day learning about Transportation Vessels. Our day concluded with a guest speaker from the Norfolk Southern Railroad.
Day 85: We started the day on a bus heading to the Norfolk Southern Rail yard. Chattanooga has the 3rd largest Norfolk Southern Rail yard, complete with a locomotive shop. Talk about a ton of rail cars. The whole yard stretches over 4 miles. We also got a tour of the locomotive shop, and waited in the rain to go inside an operating train.
Once back at the training center, we filled out some paper work and headed to lunch. After lunch, we made another entry. This time we had two areas to cover. A trailer and tank spill. My partner and I contained the tank spill and protected the nearby storm water drain. We then went over to help the rest of our team pull a victim from inside the trailer.
All in all, another great day. Tomorrow...the last day of hazmat.
Day 85: We started the day on a bus heading to the Norfolk Southern Rail yard. Chattanooga has the 3rd largest Norfolk Southern Rail yard, complete with a locomotive shop. Talk about a ton of rail cars. The whole yard stretches over 4 miles. We also got a tour of the locomotive shop, and waited in the rain to go inside an operating train.
Once back at the training center, we filled out some paper work and headed to lunch. After lunch, we made another entry. This time we had two areas to cover. A trailer and tank spill. My partner and I contained the tank spill and protected the nearby storm water drain. We then went over to help the rest of our team pull a victim from inside the trailer.
All in all, another great day. Tomorrow...the last day of hazmat.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Day 83: A Trip Downtown
We started the day with a quick decon practice....Here is the video of a decon corridor...(I'm not in the video, well I am, just not on camera...I was in a big blue suit waiting to be cleaned...)
We spent the rest of the morning talking about various ways to clean up and stop leaks at hazmat situations.
After lunch, we took a trip to Station 1. There we had several stations on stopping leaks.
My group started at Barrel leaks, moved on to a tour of Hazmat 1 (a really cool hazmat operations truck assigned to Station 1). We then moved on to a station that covered various ways to plug a leaking barrel. After that, we moved on to ways of stopping leaks on chlorine bottles, 1/2 ton containers, and rail cars. All use the same principle, just different devices that are specific to the container.
All in all a great day that went by quickly.
Tomorrow looks to be another day in the classroom. Time will tell....
We spent the rest of the morning talking about various ways to clean up and stop leaks at hazmat situations.
After lunch, we took a trip to Station 1. There we had several stations on stopping leaks.
My group started at Barrel leaks, moved on to a tour of Hazmat 1 (a really cool hazmat operations truck assigned to Station 1). We then moved on to a station that covered various ways to plug a leaking barrel. After that, we moved on to ways of stopping leaks on chlorine bottles, 1/2 ton containers, and rail cars. All use the same principle, just different devices that are specific to the container.
All in all a great day that went by quickly.
Tomorrow looks to be another day in the classroom. Time will tell....
Monday, March 8, 2010
Day 82: Get it over With
I'm not going to lie...Today was a tiring day. Not because we had a rough day...no we spent most of the day sitting on our butts. We had various speakers throughout the day, and while they were interesting...we all found ourselves drifting away.
We also took our weekly test. Again, not a problem...another 100.
We ended the day doing research and setting up a three tub decon.
Tomorrow, a field trip.
I also started a new work out program with my neighbor. It is called P90X. It makes for early mornings, but hopefully it will all be good in the end.
We also took our weekly test. Again, not a problem...another 100.
We ended the day doing research and setting up a three tub decon.
Tomorrow, a field trip.
I also started a new work out program with my neighbor. It is called P90X. It makes for early mornings, but hopefully it will all be good in the end.
Friday, March 5, 2010
Day 81: Taking a Bath....
They day started with another daily review of knowledge. Again, not too much of a problem. We spent a few hours discussing the ins and outs of decontamination. After a short break, we set up a mock decon corridor in the gym. We then took that corridor outside. We split up in to three groups. All three groups did medical monitoring, and then prepared to go outside. Groups 1 and 2 dressed out in their Level A suits, while group three helped them. Group three (the one I was in) was assigned Incident Command positions, and I was assigned incident commander.
Group 1 headed out to the decon corridor, while group 2 (entry team) headed into the hot zone. After group 2 accomplished their task, they headed over to the deon line. One by one, they went through the shower, into the wash, into the rinse tank, and out to the dress down area. We then switch roles. I dress out in my level A suit and rinsed the next group to come through the decon line.
After lunch, we had a guest speaker. He talked to us about Chemical Plants and what to expect. He then took us over to his plant and gave us a quick tour. Very informative and pretty cool. We got to see over the road tankers, containers, and railway cars.
This week has been great. I think I said it earlier, it's like being a kid....dressing up in level a "Spaceman" suits, looking at train cars, playing with expensive monitoring toys...I can't believe I get paid for this and I can't wait to see what next week brings.
Group 1 headed out to the decon corridor, while group 2 (entry team) headed into the hot zone. After group 2 accomplished their task, they headed over to the deon line. One by one, they went through the shower, into the wash, into the rinse tank, and out to the dress down area. We then switch roles. I dress out in my level A suit and rinsed the next group to come through the decon line.
After lunch, we had a guest speaker. He talked to us about Chemical Plants and what to expect. He then took us over to his plant and gave us a quick tour. Very informative and pretty cool. We got to see over the road tankers, containers, and railway cars.
This week has been great. I think I said it earlier, it's like being a kid....dressing up in level a "Spaceman" suits, looking at train cars, playing with expensive monitoring toys...I can't believe I get paid for this and I can't wait to see what next week brings.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Day 80 - Haz-Mat Continues
We started the day with a small quiz covering information found on a MSDS. I had no trouble.
We then went over Monitoring systems. Combustible gas monitors, air monitors, chemical monitors, colormetrics....about a hundred thousand dollars worth of monitoring equipment. It was a very interesting morning.
After lunch, we covered sampling. We then got to get some hands on by using various monitors to identify unknown substances. It was quite tricky. We really only had Litmus paper and PH strips. Chief and the instructors brought out the big guns (the super cool, super expensive monitors). They can break down the substance using lasers and infrared to identify the substance.
We ended the day watching the EMT-9 trying on their new Turnouts and Station uniforms. While I'm happy for each one of them, it did kind of suck watching them....
Soon enough, the rest of us will be in their shoes. For now, another week of Haz-mat, a week of something, and then EMT class.
This is still better then the alternative....
We then went over Monitoring systems. Combustible gas monitors, air monitors, chemical monitors, colormetrics....about a hundred thousand dollars worth of monitoring equipment. It was a very interesting morning.
After lunch, we covered sampling. We then got to get some hands on by using various monitors to identify unknown substances. It was quite tricky. We really only had Litmus paper and PH strips. Chief and the instructors brought out the big guns (the super cool, super expensive monitors). They can break down the substance using lasers and infrared to identify the substance.
We ended the day watching the EMT-9 trying on their new Turnouts and Station uniforms. While I'm happy for each one of them, it did kind of suck watching them....
Soon enough, the rest of us will be in their shoes. For now, another week of Haz-mat, a week of something, and then EMT class.
This is still better then the alternative....
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Day 79: The Return of the Big Blue Suits
Today brought more classroom work. We started the morning off with another test of knowledge. No biggie...I missed one. We then went over some slides on reference material. We then received some MSDS. The folders contained paper work on a specific chemical. It was our mission to find as much info as we could about that specific chemical. We then had a sheet to fill out. We had to use a minimum of three resources. I've always enjoyed detective work, and this was no different.
We then took a break for lunch. I headed down to the hospital to wish Mr. Sam May a happy birthday. He turned 65 today. I didn't get to see him, but it was nice to talk those that have been in the ICU waiting room for days.
After lunch, we had a few slides on organization (instruction was from a guest speaker). We then were divided into groups of three. One by one, we all went through our medical evaluation, got dressed in our Level A Hazmat Suits, and headed out the door. Our mission was to move items from one trailer, to another. After we completed that task, we headed up the drill tower, down the outside, and back into the gym. After a post-medical evaluation, we all regrouped at our tables and had debriefing. The instructors told us what we did well, and what we did bad. It was nice to get feedback!!!
Another fun day at the training center. Getting in the level A's is something I really enjoy...even if it is cumbersome!!!
We then took a break for lunch. I headed down to the hospital to wish Mr. Sam May a happy birthday. He turned 65 today. I didn't get to see him, but it was nice to talk those that have been in the ICU waiting room for days.
After lunch, we had a few slides on organization (instruction was from a guest speaker). We then were divided into groups of three. One by one, we all went through our medical evaluation, got dressed in our Level A Hazmat Suits, and headed out the door. Our mission was to move items from one trailer, to another. After we completed that task, we headed up the drill tower, down the outside, and back into the gym. After a post-medical evaluation, we all regrouped at our tables and had debriefing. The instructors told us what we did well, and what we did bad. It was nice to get feedback!!!
Another fun day at the training center. Getting in the level A's is something I really enjoy...even if it is cumbersome!!!
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Day 77 & 78 - Training can be fun....
Day 77: The following Friday, we moved our classroom to the gym. With permission from the Chief (our instructor for the next two weeks), we selected our seat assignment. Things were going well. Everyone had a new seat, a comfortable rolling chair, and a prepared study guide for the upcoming test....that lasted about 10 minutes. Right before test time, one of the Captains walked in with the tests, asked why we were not in assigned seats, dropped the tests on the table (a little harder than expected) and left the room. A few minutes later we were lined up in push-up position.
The test went well...another 100 for the books.
We spent the morning going over module 1 and 2. Before lunch, we got to see a chemistry experiment, using gas vapors, flames, and electricity. Very interesting....at least I thought it was.
After lunch we got our new haz-mat turnouts....Class A / Level A Suits...here is a photo...
Talk about being a kid again. Dressing up in this suit (while not the easiest task in the world) was still a good time. With help from a partner, we got into the suits (with our SCBA) and walked outside to the drill tower. There, captain had us climb a ladder, go up and down the drill tower, and then attach a pipe clamp to a metal bracket. Not easy to do with two (soon to be three) pairs of gloves on.....
Fun times, with everyone taking pictures. More pics can be found on my facebook page.
This really is a cool job. Structural Firefighting turnouts, Level A suits...you really get to bring the kid in yourself out, while still keeping a serious attitude.
Day 78: We started the day with a short quiz...no problems there. We then had a guest speaker, covering two modules....It really was Death By Power point this morning. It was tough staying awake this morning, but at least the morning didn't drag-on. I think some of the tiredness is my doing. I kind of shocked my body by not giving it its daily dose of RockStar. I may have to give in....
After a decent lunch at Station 71 (Ryan's in Hixson), we covered Module 8 (PPE). Another day of trying on suits and learning how to take care of our Level A's. We tried on some thermal suits that were all reflective and really padded. Think of it as a giant oven mitt with lenses to see out of.
We then took care of our medical screening for in the morning. A quick Sample History followed up by some baseline vital signs. I managed to take a blood pressure (manually) for the first time in 5 or so years.
Tomorrow, more fun in the Haz-Mat Level A Suits, and then back to the power points.
On a more personnel note, please pray (or keep in your thought) for my pastor's Dad...Sam May. Sam was involved in a wreck over the weekend. While driving home, he had a stroke, went off the road, dropped 30 or so feet to the ground below, and crashed into the concrete bridge. He had to be air lifted to the hospital, were he has been in IC.
Sam has what is called Locked-In Syndrome. That means that he can think, hear, and respond with blinks from his eyes....but that's it.
Tomorrow he turns 65.
Keep him and his family in your thoughts and prayers....
The test went well...another 100 for the books.
We spent the morning going over module 1 and 2. Before lunch, we got to see a chemistry experiment, using gas vapors, flames, and electricity. Very interesting....at least I thought it was.
After lunch we got our new haz-mat turnouts....Class A / Level A Suits...here is a photo...
Talk about being a kid again. Dressing up in this suit (while not the easiest task in the world) was still a good time. With help from a partner, we got into the suits (with our SCBA) and walked outside to the drill tower. There, captain had us climb a ladder, go up and down the drill tower, and then attach a pipe clamp to a metal bracket. Not easy to do with two (soon to be three) pairs of gloves on.....
Fun times, with everyone taking pictures. More pics can be found on my facebook page.
This really is a cool job. Structural Firefighting turnouts, Level A suits...you really get to bring the kid in yourself out, while still keeping a serious attitude.
Day 78: We started the day with a short quiz...no problems there. We then had a guest speaker, covering two modules....It really was Death By Power point this morning. It was tough staying awake this morning, but at least the morning didn't drag-on. I think some of the tiredness is my doing. I kind of shocked my body by not giving it its daily dose of RockStar. I may have to give in....
After a decent lunch at Station 71 (Ryan's in Hixson), we covered Module 8 (PPE). Another day of trying on suits and learning how to take care of our Level A's. We tried on some thermal suits that were all reflective and really padded. Think of it as a giant oven mitt with lenses to see out of.
We then took care of our medical screening for in the morning. A quick Sample History followed up by some baseline vital signs. I managed to take a blood pressure (manually) for the first time in 5 or so years.
Tomorrow, more fun in the Haz-Mat Level A Suits, and then back to the power points.
On a more personnel note, please pray (or keep in your thought) for my pastor's Dad...Sam May. Sam was involved in a wreck over the weekend. While driving home, he had a stroke, went off the road, dropped 30 or so feet to the ground below, and crashed into the concrete bridge. He had to be air lifted to the hospital, were he has been in IC.
Sam has what is called Locked-In Syndrome. That means that he can think, hear, and respond with blinks from his eyes....but that's it.
Tomorrow he turns 65.
Keep him and his family in your thoughts and prayers....
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Day 75 & 76 - Air Monitors and MERTTS?
Day 75 - We spent the day learning about air monitors...how they work, why we need them, etc...The buzz also started for the first wave of cadets leaving in March, as assignment talks began.
We ended the day with light PT work. This time we got to do our work out with our SCBA face-piece on.
Day 76 - Radiological training...all day, with a test at the end of the day. Really not all that exciting. We didn't have dress outs, or PT...just Radiological Training.
Next week? Haz-Mat training....We are moving the classroom to the gym for two weeks of hands on fun. Time shall see....
We ended the day with light PT work. This time we got to do our work out with our SCBA face-piece on.
Day 76 - Radiological training...all day, with a test at the end of the day. Really not all that exciting. We didn't have dress outs, or PT...just Radiological Training.
Next week? Haz-Mat training....We are moving the classroom to the gym for two weeks of hands on fun. Time shall see....
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Day 73 & 74 - ICS and Foam...Lots of Foam
Day 73: An empty day on our calendar. With everyone feeling a little cabin fever (as evident by two of our colleagues getting in to it , it would have been nice to have a free day, but no one new what to expect...What we got? We graded our tests, attended a healthy lifestyle rewards seminar and then sat through a few hours of computer assisted ICS 100.
We did have PT with Ralph....This consisted of waving around hose in different patterns. Not too bad, but still a work out.
Day 74: We started the day out in the resource building removing pallets from the building and stacking them back at the wood pile. We then went back into the building for a quick run through of foam.
Before lunch, we got our foam tools out, and ready for the afternoon session.
After lunch, we produced foam, and pulled hose. It was a great afternoon. We finally got to perform tasks that are along the lines of what we are going to be paid to do out in the station.
We then were sent to PT for our mid-week butt kicking. It was a rough one, but doable. I am tired of doing Squat thrusts however, with our without a jump.....
Friday we have a PT evaluation. Hopefully things will go well....
We did have PT with Ralph....This consisted of waving around hose in different patterns. Not too bad, but still a work out.
Day 74: We started the day out in the resource building removing pallets from the building and stacking them back at the wood pile. We then went back into the building for a quick run through of foam.
Before lunch, we got our foam tools out, and ready for the afternoon session.
After lunch, we produced foam, and pulled hose. It was a great afternoon. We finally got to perform tasks that are along the lines of what we are going to be paid to do out in the station.
We then were sent to PT for our mid-week butt kicking. It was a rough one, but doable. I am tired of doing Squat thrusts however, with our without a jump.....
Friday we have a PT evaluation. Hopefully things will go well....
Monday, February 22, 2010
Day 71 & 72: Yells, Cars, and Elevators....
Day 71: It was the day...the day we put our TWO days of intense (hint of sarcasm) extrication training to the test...PIT DRILLS.
My partner and I were Bat. Leaders for the day, and before we could get started we had to gather some equipment (dummies, backboards, air cylinders, etc). We got lucky, and snuck into the Resource Building while the door was up. We gathered all our materials and our gear and staged ourselves in the classroom. After a short video on Air Bag and new vehicle safety features we got started.
Bat. B headed off on a morning field trip, while Bat. divided into three groups. Around ten, groups 1 and 3 were put into service. For the next hour and ten minutes, we sat in the class room talking to Lieutenant. Finally we were dispatched to a hit and run. Away we headed to the pit....
Let me set the scene...three squad trucks are facing a wrecked blue car. Surrounding the car are 6 firefighters more or less yelling at us. Our groups leader did his walk around, and put us to work. I gathered all the hydraulic equipment, while the others started to crib. As I hooked up the tubes, a firefighter came up, asked me if I liked my eyesight, and then slammed down my face shield. My bad....but kind of appropriate. To make a long story short, we rescued both victims in 26 minutes, while removing both doors and the roof. For the next 20 or so minutes, Squad 1 critiqued our work. While it was rough at times, their assessment was informative.
We then broke for lunch....Krystals never tasted better.....
After lunch we headed over to a local Auto Repair Shop. There we looked at wrecked cars. We also visited the Honda dealership to take a look at some Hybrid vehicles.
We ended the day swapping stories with Bat. B.
Day 72 - We started the day in the resource building for dress out drills. With both Bat. A & B combined, Lieutenant had folks running around. For the first round, Bat. A had to get dressed and walk over to one side of the building. For Round Two, Bat. B had to move. Round Three, had us all going outside in front of the building, and the final round had Bat. A getting dressed quickly and then walking across the drill ground to the other side of the drill tower, while Bat. B had to get dressed and walk outside the door....Bat A still won.
After Dress outs, we had a tough test on extrication. We then spent the rest of the morning discussing elevators and after lunch, we took a look at an elevator system at the local college.
We ended the day with a quick run and a few pull-ups. I'm up to seven. Better than the two I could barely do at the beginning of the academy.
Tomorrow is an open day....
My partner and I were Bat. Leaders for the day, and before we could get started we had to gather some equipment (dummies, backboards, air cylinders, etc). We got lucky, and snuck into the Resource Building while the door was up. We gathered all our materials and our gear and staged ourselves in the classroom. After a short video on Air Bag and new vehicle safety features we got started.
Bat. B headed off on a morning field trip, while Bat. divided into three groups. Around ten, groups 1 and 3 were put into service. For the next hour and ten minutes, we sat in the class room talking to Lieutenant. Finally we were dispatched to a hit and run. Away we headed to the pit....
Let me set the scene...three squad trucks are facing a wrecked blue car. Surrounding the car are 6 firefighters more or less yelling at us. Our groups leader did his walk around, and put us to work. I gathered all the hydraulic equipment, while the others started to crib. As I hooked up the tubes, a firefighter came up, asked me if I liked my eyesight, and then slammed down my face shield. My bad....but kind of appropriate. To make a long story short, we rescued both victims in 26 minutes, while removing both doors and the roof. For the next 20 or so minutes, Squad 1 critiqued our work. While it was rough at times, their assessment was informative.
We then broke for lunch....Krystals never tasted better.....
After lunch we headed over to a local Auto Repair Shop. There we looked at wrecked cars. We also visited the Honda dealership to take a look at some Hybrid vehicles.
We ended the day swapping stories with Bat. B.
Day 72 - We started the day in the resource building for dress out drills. With both Bat. A & B combined, Lieutenant had folks running around. For the first round, Bat. A had to get dressed and walk over to one side of the building. For Round Two, Bat. B had to move. Round Three, had us all going outside in front of the building, and the final round had Bat. A getting dressed quickly and then walking across the drill ground to the other side of the drill tower, while Bat. B had to get dressed and walk outside the door....Bat A still won.
After Dress outs, we had a tough test on extrication. We then spent the rest of the morning discussing elevators and after lunch, we took a look at an elevator system at the local college.
We ended the day with a quick run and a few pull-ups. I'm up to seven. Better than the two I could barely do at the beginning of the academy.
Tomorrow is an open day....
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Day 70: The Big Guns....
Today we started the day with a visit from the Chief of the Department. He showed us some well used turnout gear and a few photos. It was very interesting and very eye opening.
We then viewed a few slides about Hydraulic tools. After that, we headed out to the drill ground and ran through a few stations.
1st station had us cutting with Reciprocating saws and working with a come-along. At the 2nd station, we stabilized a vehicle using air bags and cribbing. At the 3rd station we played with the three common hydraulic tools (the spreaders, clippers, and the ram).
The time was 12:30, so we broke for lunch.
After lunch, we headed back out to the drill ground. This time for five stations.
1: Hydraulic cutting (doors, frames, etc.)
2: Rolling back the dash using hydraulic tools
3: Pulling the steering column back using a come along
4: Operating an Air Chisel
5: Setting up air bags
It was a very fun and educational day. Tomorrow we put our skills to the test. It should be a good time.
We then viewed a few slides about Hydraulic tools. After that, we headed out to the drill ground and ran through a few stations.
1st station had us cutting with Reciprocating saws and working with a come-along. At the 2nd station, we stabilized a vehicle using air bags and cribbing. At the 3rd station we played with the three common hydraulic tools (the spreaders, clippers, and the ram).
The time was 12:30, so we broke for lunch.
After lunch, we headed back out to the drill ground. This time for five stations.
1: Hydraulic cutting (doors, frames, etc.)
2: Rolling back the dash using hydraulic tools
3: Pulling the steering column back using a come along
4: Operating an Air Chisel
5: Setting up air bags
It was a very fun and educational day. Tomorrow we put our skills to the test. It should be a good time.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Day 69: Creating a Scrapheap
It was Wednesday, so we started our day with dress outs. One little twist was added. We had to surrender half of the gym. Due to a class, all thirty of us were crammed on one side. I somehow ended up in the dead center of Bat. B. No worries, even amongst strangers, we still managed to pick up two wins. Because of the class, we were kicked out of the gym.
After a little break, we headed outside to prepare for our day of extrication. We loaded up our two squad trucks (with wood and cribbing) and headed out to the drill ground. There we flipped two cars...one on its side and the other on its roof. We spent the rest of the day practicing our stabilization skills. We also got to disassemble the vehicles using hand tools and the group I was in got to use a reciprocating saw to cut a trunk in half.
A fun day...tomorrow we bring out the big guns and really start cutting up some vehicles....
After a little break, we headed outside to prepare for our day of extrication. We loaded up our two squad trucks (with wood and cribbing) and headed out to the drill ground. There we flipped two cars...one on its side and the other on its roof. We spent the rest of the day practicing our stabilization skills. We also got to disassemble the vehicles using hand tools and the group I was in got to use a reciprocating saw to cut a trunk in half.
A fun day...tomorrow we bring out the big guns and really start cutting up some vehicles....
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Day 67 & 68: Extrication Begins
Day 67: We started the day with Dress Outs...The losers had to battle the weather and head out for a few laps around the drill grounds. The drill required us to get dressed as fast as possible and then head to the opposite baseline. Bat. A won all three attempts. We did have a two minute timed drill and we all passed.
We then took our 25 question Hazmat Exam. Once again, my study guide proved helpful, and I got another 100.
The rest of the day was spent in the classroom having instruction on Extrication...well kinda of. All we really covered was Extrication History...oh and we read one chapter in our extrication book...and then had a quiz. Things were back to normal, 10 minute breaks, and hour lunch and then our favorite....PT...
A very strange PT....One of our fellow cadets had to run, while the rest of us did our leg lifts. We all then did our regular sets...but very quickly. I'll be honest, it was a little tough. We finished up stretching while that same cadet did his leg lifts. We all went around and timed his leg lifts.
We were sent home tired, sweaty, and ready for the weekend...but it was only Monday..
Day 68: Another day, and another day of Extrication. Today we had a guest speaker from the LifeForce. They are the local Emergency Airlift agency. Our goal was to learn how to prepare a Landing Zone for the helicopters. After he did his presentation (which was done very well) we had a few lecture slides. At 11:30 we were excused for an hour and half lunch. Most of us headed to Ci Ci's pizza.
After lunch, half of the class headed over to Erlanger to look at the Helicopter hanger. The rest of us waited for them to get back. Because LifeForce had to make a call, neither group got to see the hanger. Our group didn't even get to leave the training center.
The rest of the day we discussed stabilization and the use of cribbing. We were then excused for PT.
It was a Ralph day and we had two exercises:
1: Complete 1 squat thrust with a jump, pick up a 2 1/2 inch hose and run it full court and back. Then complete 2 squat thrusts with a jump and run the hose full court...complete this pattern up to 10.
2: Make waves with a 1 3/4 inch hose by pulling it up and down 200 times in 4 sets of 50.
Not a bad work out, but a workout indeed.
Tomorrow? More extrication and the usual dress outs...
We then took our 25 question Hazmat Exam. Once again, my study guide proved helpful, and I got another 100.
The rest of the day was spent in the classroom having instruction on Extrication...well kinda of. All we really covered was Extrication History...oh and we read one chapter in our extrication book...and then had a quiz. Things were back to normal, 10 minute breaks, and hour lunch and then our favorite....PT...
A very strange PT....One of our fellow cadets had to run, while the rest of us did our leg lifts. We all then did our regular sets...but very quickly. I'll be honest, it was a little tough. We finished up stretching while that same cadet did his leg lifts. We all went around and timed his leg lifts.
We were sent home tired, sweaty, and ready for the weekend...but it was only Monday..
Day 68: Another day, and another day of Extrication. Today we had a guest speaker from the LifeForce. They are the local Emergency Airlift agency. Our goal was to learn how to prepare a Landing Zone for the helicopters. After he did his presentation (which was done very well) we had a few lecture slides. At 11:30 we were excused for an hour and half lunch. Most of us headed to Ci Ci's pizza.
After lunch, half of the class headed over to Erlanger to look at the Helicopter hanger. The rest of us waited for them to get back. Because LifeForce had to make a call, neither group got to see the hanger. Our group didn't even get to leave the training center.
The rest of the day we discussed stabilization and the use of cribbing. We were then excused for PT.
It was a Ralph day and we had two exercises:
1: Complete 1 squat thrust with a jump, pick up a 2 1/2 inch hose and run it full court and back. Then complete 2 squat thrusts with a jump and run the hose full court...complete this pattern up to 10.
2: Make waves with a 1 3/4 inch hose by pulling it up and down 200 times in 4 sets of 50.
Not a bad work out, but a workout indeed.
Tomorrow? More extrication and the usual dress outs...
Friday, February 12, 2010
Day 66: Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow
Today is Friday...and you know what that means...Yes, lunch at Moe's and Snow.
Once again we were let out early because of the snow. Not nearly as much as last time, but I'll take what I can get.
We started the day with dress out drills. I had an incident with my air pack, so it cost us a trip through the tunnel, into the window on the the second floor, a climb up to the top, a decent down the scuttle hole, a journey to the bottom floor, and another quick trip through the tunnel...my bad. We also lost the very next drill (but thankfully not my fault).
Today was our last day of HazMat. Instead of having to sit in the classroom, we set up decontamination tents in the gym. Think of them as giant tents with showers (hot water included). We also helped stock our training trailer for our next HazMat journey.
Due to the weather, we were sent home at 3:30. I took that opportunity to get the wife a valentine gift....
Monday starts extrication...that's right...cutting things apart. Stay tuned.
Once again we were let out early because of the snow. Not nearly as much as last time, but I'll take what I can get.
We started the day with dress out drills. I had an incident with my air pack, so it cost us a trip through the tunnel, into the window on the the second floor, a climb up to the top, a decent down the scuttle hole, a journey to the bottom floor, and another quick trip through the tunnel...my bad. We also lost the very next drill (but thankfully not my fault).
Today was our last day of HazMat. Instead of having to sit in the classroom, we set up decontamination tents in the gym. Think of them as giant tents with showers (hot water included). We also helped stock our training trailer for our next HazMat journey.
Due to the weather, we were sent home at 3:30. I took that opportunity to get the wife a valentine gift....
Monday starts extrication...that's right...cutting things apart. Stay tuned.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Day 65: A 30 man pushup?
Today was a very simple day. We spent most of the day running Incident Command scenarios and taking breaks. For lunch I headed to Chick Fillet...I think I left hungrier than when I went in (if that's possible). We also watched a video on recognizing and understanding the signs of smoke.
PT was fun. We went up the tower holding weights. We stopped on every floor and did 10 push-ups on each floor. We then had to carry the weight back down.
We then went back inside and did a 30 man pushup (everyone in a huge line) and followed that up with a 30 man circle push up.
We ended our day with a itinerary for next week's extrication training. It should be a good week....
Tomorrow? Dress outs and Hands on Haz Mat....
PT was fun. We went up the tower holding weights. We stopped on every floor and did 10 push-ups on each floor. We then had to carry the weight back down.
We then went back inside and did a 30 man pushup (everyone in a huge line) and followed that up with a 30 man circle push up.
We ended our day with a itinerary for next week's extrication training. It should be a good week....
Tomorrow? Dress outs and Hands on Haz Mat....
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Day 64: Well Surprise surprise....
The morning started with dress outs. And while I was never the last person to cross the line, Bat. found ourselves climbing the tower. And this was no stroll in the park...Through the window, up the stairs, down the scuttle hole,down the stairs, through the tunnel, and back in the gym.
After dress outs, we packed up our gear, put it away, and headed to class. After a little class clean up, we took a vote. Chief wanted us to elect our class President and Vice-President. Votes were cast, the ballots were counted, and yes, I came out as the VP. I don't really know what that means because the Pres. has to give a speech at Graduation. But I'm still honored that the class would elect little ole me....
The rest of the day was the same ole, same ole....Classroom until PT.
PT was not as difficult as I had expected it....now it wasn't easy, but not what I expected. We did increase our rep count from 35 to 45.....
Tomorrow, we rap up our book work, and get ready for hands on....
After dress outs, we packed up our gear, put it away, and headed to class. After a little class clean up, we took a vote. Chief wanted us to elect our class President and Vice-President. Votes were cast, the ballots were counted, and yes, I came out as the VP. I don't really know what that means because the Pres. has to give a speech at Graduation. But I'm still honored that the class would elect little ole me....
The rest of the day was the same ole, same ole....Classroom until PT.
PT was not as difficult as I had expected it....now it wasn't easy, but not what I expected. We did increase our rep count from 35 to 45.....
Tomorrow, we rap up our book work, and get ready for hands on....
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Day 63: One day closer.....
Today was more of the same....lecture, break, lecture, break, lecture, lunch, basketball / football, lecture, break, lecture, break, lecture, PT, Home. It really has become, as one of my classmates put it, death by powerpoint.
In PT today we did sets of tens. Our first exercise was a push up to a squat stance - 10 sets adding one to each set (so by the end your are doing 10 for a set). We then followed it up with a sit up to a roll-stance (again adding one till we reached 10).
We then did half court monkey walks (with 10 push ups) and half court seal walks (with 10 sit ups).
We ended the day with one of my favorites....the group push-up.
Tomorrow, dress out drills, Captn's PT, and more "death by powerpoint"...Not complaining though...I still love going to work!
In PT today we did sets of tens. Our first exercise was a push up to a squat stance - 10 sets adding one to each set (so by the end your are doing 10 for a set). We then followed it up with a sit up to a roll-stance (again adding one till we reached 10).
We then did half court monkey walks (with 10 push ups) and half court seal walks (with 10 sit ups).
We ended the day with one of my favorites....the group push-up.
Tomorrow, dress out drills, Captn's PT, and more "death by powerpoint"...Not complaining though...I still love going to work!
Monday, February 8, 2010
Day 62: A Clean Sweep.....
Seems like the Super Bowl caught up with us all....today was rough. Not in a PT sense, we didn't have it....Not as in Dress outs, Bat. A won all four events....And Not academically, our test was pretty simple....So what was rough? Trying to stay awake in class. I don't know if it was the temperature of the building or what, but we were all asleep today. Even the sugar wasn't keeping our eyelids open....
At lunch, the classroom turned into a bunkhouse. I walked in to the room to find it in almost complete darkness and several folks zonked out...
Hopefully tomorrow will be better....
At lunch, the classroom turned into a bunkhouse. I walked in to the room to find it in almost complete darkness and several folks zonked out...
Hopefully tomorrow will be better....
Friday, February 5, 2010
Day 61: Welcome Back
Today I returned to normal cadet life, my days in the EMT-5 were gone. Or so I thought. Halfway through Dress Out Drills, Lt. came in, took me and Bryant out, and informed us that we (more importantly me...Bryant is fine) still might be able to get out early. But that dreamed faded after lunch. I was told I was not going to be able to get out early, and that I would have to retake the EMT Basic Class.....No biggie...
The rest of the day...Hazmat in the classroom, Moe's for Friday lunch, and Captain's PT. 7 Suicides, push ups, and mtn. climbers...done in sets of 7, 11, and 5.
Monday...more hazmat, dressouts, and pt...
The rest of the day...Hazmat in the classroom, Moe's for Friday lunch, and Captain's PT. 7 Suicides, push ups, and mtn. climbers...done in sets of 7, 11, and 5.
Monday...more hazmat, dressouts, and pt...
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Day 59 & 60 : A New Surprise
Day 59: We started out the day with a few dress outs. We even had to climb the tower and go through the tunnel. Kind of a nice way to start the morning. We continued the day with more sugar than any one human should intake. We ended the day with the EMT-5 practicing IV's and airway management. The three of us were ready for our practical. The rest of the class had an awful day of PT that lead to some after class discussion.
Day 60: The day began, and with it so did Hazmat. We finished up our 2nd class and took a test....a 100. It was understood that this may be our weekly test. If that's the case, no homework or studying over the weekend.
The rest of the day we had lecture. The whole day I was preparing for my practical at 3:00. Finally, it was time. We all gathered in Lt. office, and the first cadet picked his card. While he completed his task, we overheard the evaluator and Lt. talking. To make a long story short, because the other guy and I did not take our class in Tennessee, she could NOT let us take our practical. We were told that we had to go to our original states and take it. Not a problem...so I head to Missouri and take it again....wrong. So...after a few phone calls...it looks like I will be staying until the 20th of May. No biggie, I will still be a firefighter at the end of it all....
So tomorrow....back to class, and back to PT!!!!
Day 60: The day began, and with it so did Hazmat. We finished up our 2nd class and took a test....a 100. It was understood that this may be our weekly test. If that's the case, no homework or studying over the weekend.
The rest of the day we had lecture. The whole day I was preparing for my practical at 3:00. Finally, it was time. We all gathered in Lt. office, and the first cadet picked his card. While he completed his task, we overheard the evaluator and Lt. talking. To make a long story short, because the other guy and I did not take our class in Tennessee, she could NOT let us take our practical. We were told that we had to go to our original states and take it. Not a problem...so I head to Missouri and take it again....wrong. So...after a few phone calls...it looks like I will be staying until the 20th of May. No biggie, I will still be a firefighter at the end of it all....
So tomorrow....back to class, and back to PT!!!!
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Day 58 - Atomic Fireballs & Jolly Ranchers
With long classes and short nights, we all needed a pick me up to get through the day. We decided on candy. Nothing like a little sugar rush to wake you up.
We had another day of Hazmat class and we actually had PT with Ralph. My first in two weeks. With days of no PT and EMT preparation class, PT at school has been an after thought. I enjoyed it.
Thursday is my first hurdle in my EMT quest....tonight more studying.
We had another day of Hazmat class and we actually had PT with Ralph. My first in two weeks. With days of no PT and EMT preparation class, PT at school has been an after thought. I enjoyed it.
Thursday is my first hurdle in my EMT quest....tonight more studying.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Day 57 - All Hazmat...All the time
Doesn't seem that long ago that I was sore and exhausted every time I came home from school. For a second time in a row, I start a week with no PT. In fact, the last time I did PT at school was two weeks from tomorrow....We skipped it again today, because we are 3 days behind with HazMat.
We started our day with a test (95) and then jumped into classwork. We did take a short field trip to see the Hazmat resource trailers. Very Nice. We even have portable trailers that have heated showers in them.
We finished the day with more classwork and a test review...
Tomorrow? More of the same. Fortunately I kind of enjoy the topic....
We started our day with a test (95) and then jumped into classwork. We did take a short field trip to see the Hazmat resource trailers. Very Nice. We even have portable trailers that have heated showers in them.
We finished the day with more classwork and a test review...
Tomorrow? More of the same. Fortunately I kind of enjoy the topic....
Friday, January 29, 2010
Day 56 - A Short Day
Today was very simple...No dress outs, no PT, all hazmat class. And to top it all off, due to inclement weather, we got out at 1:30. For once the weather did turn a little. We got around 4 inches of snow in some places (and that's a lot for Chattanooga). Tomorrow we could get more, and we are under a winter weather advisory until 4:00pm.
Easy day, to end Week 12.
Easy day, to end Week 12.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Day 55 - HazMat Anyone?
Today we sat in the classroom and discussed hazmat, took a break, came back for some more hazmat, took another break and followed it up with some more hazmat. We then were excused for lunch and afterwords played a little football, followed up with some hazmat. We then ended our day with a little hazmat. Tomorrow...hazmat all day again.
The EMT 5 (well 4 today) were pulled out of PT for our first rounds of Needle sticks. I was the first to go. I was not successful on two attempts. I started a bad trend, because the rest of them couldn't do it either. By the end of our time, two people finally go theirs. I know it's just a matter of time before I get mine.
Did I mention Hazmat tomorrow?
The EMT 5 (well 4 today) were pulled out of PT for our first rounds of Needle sticks. I was the first to go. I was not successful on two attempts. I started a bad trend, because the rest of them couldn't do it either. By the end of our time, two people finally go theirs. I know it's just a matter of time before I get mine.
Did I mention Hazmat tomorrow?
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Day 54 - A Dark entry into Hazmat
We started the day with dress outs, and once again...Bat. A took all four. The last round had us at a little disadvantage. A few of Bat. B's cadets were already half dressed. The instructors than shut the lights out on us, and we had to complete the drill in the dark...very fun.
We spent the rest of the day in the classroom watching videos and hearing lecture on Haz-Mat.
The EMT-5 had class again, so PT was not necessary. I did my exercised at home.
Tomorrow? More Haz-Mat...it's going to be a long day.
Video of the station fire....
To put in perspective, the fire department arrived in 4 or 5 minutes...the building was at a complete loss at that point. 11 minutes later, the whole building was gone....Always look for alternative exits...this place had four, but like most of us, they wanted to get out the same way they went in....
We spent the rest of the day in the classroom watching videos and hearing lecture on Haz-Mat.
The EMT-5 had class again, so PT was not necessary. I did my exercised at home.
Tomorrow? More Haz-Mat...it's going to be a long day.
Video of the station fire....
To put in perspective, the fire department arrived in 4 or 5 minutes...the building was at a complete loss at that point. 11 minutes later, the whole building was gone....Always look for alternative exits...this place had four, but like most of us, they wanted to get out the same way they went in....
Day 53 - Fire Prevention & Public Education
We started the day with lecture, and ended the day with lecture. The last day of fire suppression was one of the longest (not to mention tiring...) The first half of the day was spent on book work. The second half of the day, we had guests from Admin. The Fire Marshal came buy to speak with us. What we thought was going to be a quick talk, ended up being a whole afternoon presentation.
He talked about the importance of Fire Prevention and Public Ed. and how we should have our own plans at home. The kids and I ran through our EDITH (Exit Drill in The home) this evening, and I encourage all of you to do the same.
We also watched a video on the Station Fire ( INFO from Wikipedia ) in which 100 people died in less than 10 minutes. If I find the video, I will post it.
We once again got out of PT.
He talked about the importance of Fire Prevention and Public Ed. and how we should have our own plans at home. The kids and I ran through our EDITH (Exit Drill in The home) this evening, and I encourage all of you to do the same.
We also watched a video on the Station Fire ( INFO from Wikipedia ) in which 100 people died in less than 10 minutes. If I find the video, I will post it.
We once again got out of PT.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Day 52 - A Long Day for nothing...
Today was a wasted day. We didn't do much of anything. We started the day with chores and dress out drills. I'm sad to say that Bat. A lost the first dress out. Our streak stopped at 8. We did get the second win, to even things out.
We then took our test (another 100) and started class on Fire investigation.
I once again did not have PT due to EMT.
Tomorrow...more classroom and Ralph for PT.
We then took our test (another 100) and started class on Fire investigation.
I once again did not have PT due to EMT.
Tomorrow...more classroom and Ralph for PT.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Day 51 - Would you Could you in the Dark?
Week 11 was supposed to be the end of fire suppression. Because we fell behind two days, Haz-Mat will start Wednesday. We did get our books though....ugh....
They day started with dress out in the gym. Battalion A was already on a winning streak of four. To play catch up, we are divided into two Bat. A and B (15 on one side, 15 on the other). When an instructor comes in and yells go, away we go. The first team finished wins.
Heat 1 - Warm-up round (no winner or loser) Heat 2 - Get Fully Dressed head to the baseline (Bat. A winner) Heat 3 - Wait for your partner, head to the baseline (Bat. A winner) Heat 4 - Get fully dressed in the pitch black conditions and head to the baseline with partner (Bat. A winner) and the Final Heat 5 - The front line of cadets were moved in between the last line. Get fully dressed in the pitch black in tight conditions (Bat A winner). For the second dress out day in a row, Bat A took all the heats. Not sure why the success, but I'm glad that I'm doing well. On Monday, we are swapping sides in the gym. We will see if we can keep our streak alive.
For the rest of the morning we folded set up chutes, tarps, and other Loss control skills. After a lunch at Moe's, we got our teams ready for the afternoon challenge - The Philadelphia Drill. This drill had us following a hoseline through a small obstacle course and rescuing a down firefighter (blacked out and on air of course). Our group of five formed our plan. I would go through first, and speed my way to the end of the course and get the firefighter ready to pass through the confined space tube. Oh, here is the course. Crawl through a small square opening and follow the hose until you reach an A-frame wall. Climb up and over the wall and head to the confined space tunnel. Upon exit, the course ends. Return to the beginning with the firefighter.
Our group didn't seem to have any problems. We completed the task in 4 minutes and 38 seconds. That took 3rd place (out of six). Not bad.
Once again, the EMT-5 had class, while the others had a 2-mile run.
I will run my two miles either today or tomorrow.
Next week, two days of fire and the start of Haz-mat.
They day started with dress out in the gym. Battalion A was already on a winning streak of four. To play catch up, we are divided into two Bat. A and B (15 on one side, 15 on the other). When an instructor comes in and yells go, away we go. The first team finished wins.
Heat 1 - Warm-up round (no winner or loser) Heat 2 - Get Fully Dressed head to the baseline (Bat. A winner) Heat 3 - Wait for your partner, head to the baseline (Bat. A winner) Heat 4 - Get fully dressed in the pitch black conditions and head to the baseline with partner (Bat. A winner) and the Final Heat 5 - The front line of cadets were moved in between the last line. Get fully dressed in the pitch black in tight conditions (Bat A winner). For the second dress out day in a row, Bat A took all the heats. Not sure why the success, but I'm glad that I'm doing well. On Monday, we are swapping sides in the gym. We will see if we can keep our streak alive.
For the rest of the morning we folded set up chutes, tarps, and other Loss control skills. After a lunch at Moe's, we got our teams ready for the afternoon challenge - The Philadelphia Drill. This drill had us following a hoseline through a small obstacle course and rescuing a down firefighter (blacked out and on air of course). Our group of five formed our plan. I would go through first, and speed my way to the end of the course and get the firefighter ready to pass through the confined space tube. Oh, here is the course. Crawl through a small square opening and follow the hose until you reach an A-frame wall. Climb up and over the wall and head to the confined space tunnel. Upon exit, the course ends. Return to the beginning with the firefighter.
Our group didn't seem to have any problems. We completed the task in 4 minutes and 38 seconds. That took 3rd place (out of six). Not bad.
Once again, the EMT-5 had class, while the others had a 2-mile run.
I will run my two miles either today or tomorrow.
Next week, two days of fire and the start of Haz-mat.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Day 50 - Tarps and a Fake Arm
The day started with some confusion. Most of us had taken our turnouts home to dry out. The sprinkler drill from the day before left us more than soaked. We were told to lock our gear in the gym, and then two minutes later told to get all our gear and head to the gym. Most of us thought it was dress out drill time, when in fact all we had to do was leave it there.
From there we headed back to the class room for instruction on Salvage and overhaul. It was a short lesson on a short chapter. We spent the rest of the morning folding and unrolling tarps. We then had around a hour and half for lunch (a trend for the past two days). We finished up the day folding canvas tarps, covering up a drill station, and watching a few videos.
PT was canceled for the EMT 5. We headed upstairs to the EMT room. I found out today that I will be taking my National Registry Practical Exam on the 5th of February. We also practice starting our IVs on a fake arm. Not that hard, and not that big of a deal. I got to take the arm home and practice.
Fire suppression ends tomorrow...Haz mat is next....
Here is a quick run through of days 30 - 49.
Feel free to ask about any of the days...
Day 30 - December 21 - Forcible Entry Axe Chopping pallets, concrete breaking
Day 31 - Dec. 22 - Battalion leader / Forcible Entry - Axe Chopping, Acetylene Torch, Metal Door Breaching, Pike Pole Trainer, Squad Truck Saws, Window Simulator - Our trip to the power house
Day 32 - Dec. 23 - Horrible Dress outs / Better Afternoon with a top of the drill tower climb with tools (Aerial Ladder), and ladder rescue (knees on shoulder and carry used humans)
Day 33 - Dec. 24 - Short day involving a ride in Chattanooga's only basket ladder and raising and carrying ladders
Day 34 - Dec. 28 - Test Number 7 - Better dress out day / 109 foot climb / Hoisting ladders / Raising ladders / Carrying ladders / Roof ladder deployment /
Day 35 - Dec. 29 - Blood donation and the start of ventilation - No PT
Day 36 - Dec. 30 - Better dress out - Chain saw day - cutting ventilation openings on three different pitches and our first exposure to the effects of smoke - No PT
Day 37 - Dec. 31 - Rainy day involving us going out and starting chain saws and getting a better feel for them - Some recruits had to redo their cuts. Cut with a concrete saw blade - helped set up for in-service - No PT
Day 38 - Jan. 4 - A new year brings a hard test - Better dress outs - Class room on Water supply and Catching hydrants on the drill ground
Day 39 - Jan. 5 - Classroom on Hoses, Throwing and rolling hose and looking at the different types of trucks - Obstacle course during Ralph PT / and the departure of two recruits
Day 40 - Jan. 6 - Hoses hoses and more hoses. Good Dress outs and PT compliments Outside
Day 41 - Jan. 7 - Hose drills in the gym (rolls, lays in the bed, picking up off ground - Good PT)
Day 42 - Jan. 8 - Hose Drills, Dress out competition, Clamps, chainsaws, ladder, No PT
Day 43 - Jan. 11 - Dress outs - Best Test Ever - Weather too cold for water flow - Class Room most of the day
Day 44 - Jan. 12 - Too cold for water flow - more class room - Another Ralph obstacle course
Day 45 - Jan. 13 - First Day of water flow - Up a ladder, replacing a section of hose, master stream, advancing charged hose line (2 1/2, 1 3/4), and hold a smooth bore nozzle (2 1//2) and no PT (prep for night drill)
Day 46 - Jan. 14 - Night Drill started at 12:00. Had breakfast with Jamie and a dive diner in Hixson / Night drill had us advancing hose lines upstairs to put out actual fire / Rescuing people from the 1st floor / wiping the steam off a hot hot room / having pants catch fire / Done at 9:30 pm
Day 47 - Jan. 15 - Continued with drills / group leader / standpipe hookup / PPV Fan hookup / Fire attack / Clean up from hell / No PT
Jan. 18 - No school....MLK DAY!!
Day 48 - Jan. 19 - Good Test / Good Dress Outs (Bat. A takes four in a row) / Classroom on Sprinklers / Ralph's two minute drill
Day 49 - Jan. 20 - Finish Class room on Sprinklers and alarms / Get soaked in the sprinkler drill / No PT due to EMT Class
From there we headed back to the class room for instruction on Salvage and overhaul. It was a short lesson on a short chapter. We spent the rest of the morning folding and unrolling tarps. We then had around a hour and half for lunch (a trend for the past two days). We finished up the day folding canvas tarps, covering up a drill station, and watching a few videos.
PT was canceled for the EMT 5. We headed upstairs to the EMT room. I found out today that I will be taking my National Registry Practical Exam on the 5th of February. We also practice starting our IVs on a fake arm. Not that hard, and not that big of a deal. I got to take the arm home and practice.
Fire suppression ends tomorrow...Haz mat is next....
Here is a quick run through of days 30 - 49.
Feel free to ask about any of the days...
Day 30 - December 21 - Forcible Entry Axe Chopping pallets, concrete breaking
Day 31 - Dec. 22 - Battalion leader / Forcible Entry - Axe Chopping, Acetylene Torch, Metal Door Breaching, Pike Pole Trainer, Squad Truck Saws, Window Simulator - Our trip to the power house
Day 32 - Dec. 23 - Horrible Dress outs / Better Afternoon with a top of the drill tower climb with tools (Aerial Ladder), and ladder rescue (knees on shoulder and carry used humans)
Day 33 - Dec. 24 - Short day involving a ride in Chattanooga's only basket ladder and raising and carrying ladders
Day 34 - Dec. 28 - Test Number 7 - Better dress out day / 109 foot climb / Hoisting ladders / Raising ladders / Carrying ladders / Roof ladder deployment /
Day 35 - Dec. 29 - Blood donation and the start of ventilation - No PT
Day 36 - Dec. 30 - Better dress out - Chain saw day - cutting ventilation openings on three different pitches and our first exposure to the effects of smoke - No PT
Day 37 - Dec. 31 - Rainy day involving us going out and starting chain saws and getting a better feel for them - Some recruits had to redo their cuts. Cut with a concrete saw blade - helped set up for in-service - No PT
Day 38 - Jan. 4 - A new year brings a hard test - Better dress outs - Class room on Water supply and Catching hydrants on the drill ground
Day 39 - Jan. 5 - Classroom on Hoses, Throwing and rolling hose and looking at the different types of trucks - Obstacle course during Ralph PT / and the departure of two recruits
Day 40 - Jan. 6 - Hoses hoses and more hoses. Good Dress outs and PT compliments Outside
Day 41 - Jan. 7 - Hose drills in the gym (rolls, lays in the bed, picking up off ground - Good PT)
Day 42 - Jan. 8 - Hose Drills, Dress out competition, Clamps, chainsaws, ladder, No PT
Day 43 - Jan. 11 - Dress outs - Best Test Ever - Weather too cold for water flow - Class Room most of the day
Day 44 - Jan. 12 - Too cold for water flow - more class room - Another Ralph obstacle course
Day 45 - Jan. 13 - First Day of water flow - Up a ladder, replacing a section of hose, master stream, advancing charged hose line (2 1/2, 1 3/4), and hold a smooth bore nozzle (2 1//2) and no PT (prep for night drill)
Day 46 - Jan. 14 - Night Drill started at 12:00. Had breakfast with Jamie and a dive diner in Hixson / Night drill had us advancing hose lines upstairs to put out actual fire / Rescuing people from the 1st floor / wiping the steam off a hot hot room / having pants catch fire / Done at 9:30 pm
Day 47 - Jan. 15 - Continued with drills / group leader / standpipe hookup / PPV Fan hookup / Fire attack / Clean up from hell / No PT
Jan. 18 - No school....MLK DAY!!
Day 48 - Jan. 19 - Good Test / Good Dress Outs (Bat. A takes four in a row) / Classroom on Sprinklers / Ralph's two minute drill
Day 49 - Jan. 20 - Finish Class room on Sprinklers and alarms / Get soaked in the sprinkler drill / No PT due to EMT Class
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Day 29 - Brining a Tough Week to a close
Day 29 - We ended our tough week starting forcible entry. It was a rainy day, so we spent the whole first part of the day inside, with classroom instruction.
After lunch, Lieutenant took us outdoors to look at various forcible entry tools and to break into some windows and doors.
We ended the day with some PT and we were allowed to take our gear home for some cleaning. I didn't wash my gear, but I did dress up in it. The kids loved it...
With Christmas on the horizon, we looked forward to a short week.
After lunch, Lieutenant took us outdoors to look at various forcible entry tools and to break into some windows and doors.
We ended the day with some PT and we were allowed to take our gear home for some cleaning. I didn't wash my gear, but I did dress up in it. The kids loved it...
With Christmas on the horizon, we looked forward to a short week.
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