In a recent discussion among members of the Lebanon Fire Department, firefighters emphasized the importance of rigorous training and community engagement as key components of their service. The team highlighted their commitment to maintaining an open-door policy with administration, fostering a supportive environment that encourages communication and teamwork.

Firefighters shared insights into their daily routines, which include early morning training sessions focused on essential skills such as search and rescue, fire attack, and water rescue. They stressed that these skills are perishable and require consistent practice to ensure proficiency, especially in high-pressure situations. \"Everything we do is a perishable skill,\" one firefighter noted, underscoring the necessity of regular training to maintain readiness for emergencies.

The conversation also touched on the misconceptions surrounding the fire service, particularly the stereotype of firefighters idly waiting for calls. Firefighters clarified that their work involves continuous physical training and preparation, which is crucial for their effectiveness during actual emergencies. \"If you're not doing that, then you're not going to be able to perform your job,\" one member stated.

Community outreach was another significant topic, with firefighters discussing their recent engagements at local schools, including Thorntown Elementary. They expressed the importance of educating children about fire safety and building positive relationships with the community. \"We want to show them that we're not scary people,\" one firefighter explained, emphasizing the goal of making children feel safe and comfortable around first responders.

The discussion also included lighter moments, with firefighters sharing humorous anecdotes from their training experiences, illustrating the camaraderie and resilience within the department. These stories not only highlighted the challenges of their training but also the importance of maintaining a sense of humor in a demanding profession.

Overall, the Lebanon Fire Department's commitment to training, community involvement, and support for one another reflects their dedication to serving and protecting the community effectively.