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County to host firefighter 1 graduation; officials highlight training, SCBA fit testing and staffing needs
Summary
Commission discussed upcoming Firefighter I graduations, training classes, free SCBA fit testing offered by county, and ongoing staffing shortages affecting coverage percentages.
Pittsylvania County commissioners and staff used the May 20 meeting to highlight recent training completions, an upcoming Firefighter I graduation, free SCBA fit testing for departments and continuing staffing shortages that affect response coverage.
Commissioners and staff said multiple Firefighter I classes are finishing testing with about 13–18 students per class; the commission plans a public graduation and asked for volunteers to help organize the ceremony. "That's a hundred and 86 hour course, I believe," a commissioner said of the training program; staff noted practical tests were scheduled and students would be certified if they pass written and practical exams.
Director Key reminded departments that SCBA fit testing is available free of charge and that county staff will come to station meeting nights to complete annual testing. Staff also flagged an online lithium‑ion battery safety class (3½ to 4 hours) and an instructor symposium in Blacksburg as available training opportunities.
Commissioners and staff discussed response-coverage statistics for recent weeks and noted a target coverage percent of 70 for FY2025. Staff praised Chatham Rescue for strong recent coverage (23 of 23 calls one week, 17 of 18 the next) and asked departments to continue recruitment efforts: "They need people," one official said. The commission announced an EMT class planned for September–December and encouraged prospective students to register.
