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Commission praises high pass rate for Firefighter I classes; county schedules hazmat and EV-battery training
Summary
County staff reported a high pass rate for two Firefighter I classes, scheduled a hazmat operations course and highlighted an electric-vehicle/lithium-ion battery training and SCBA fit testing availability for local firefighters.
County staff and commission members on July 17 highlighted recent and upcoming training for local firefighters and EMS personnel, praising instructors and noting available courses.
County staff reported that two Firefighter I classes recently ran in the county, with the first class already tested and an initial pass rate of about 95 percent; staff expected the pass rate to increase after retesting. "We finished our 2 firefighter 1 classes we had going in the county... I thought, a awesome pass rate on that class. It was probably 95 percent and I expect it might be a 100% by now because they've retested," said the county staff representative.
The county is lining up a hazardous materials operations class to complete required training sequences. Staff described an electric-vehicle and lithium-ion battery class listed on the Virginia Department of Fire Programs website, a three- to four-hour course that addresses lithium-ion fire risks and response tactics. The staff member said the course “shines a lot of light on lithium ion batteries and the problems we have if they happen to catch on fire.”
Fit testing for SCBA (self-contained breathing apparatus) is available to departments and staff encouraged scheduling annual testing: "FIT testing is also available... Just let us know and we'll come to your department and do it for you," the staff member said.
Commissioners congratulated instructors and students. Commissioner Jimmy Atkins and others thanked instructors and noted the training supports future leaders for county agencies. The commission also noted a roughly 40-hour hazmat course was planned and encouraged cooperation among departments to get members through the classes.
Why it matters: Training affects readiness and safety for firefighters and the public as EVs and lithium-ion batteries become more common. The availability of SCBA fit testing and hazmat training helps maintain certification standards.
Next steps: Departments were asked to submit graduation candidate lists by July 31 for an August 20 ceremony at Chatham Middle School; staff will finalize hazmat scheduling and provide EV-battery training information via the state program listing.
