TRAINING

The objective of our training program is to prepare the officers, drivers, and firefighters to meet the goal of the Department's overall MISSION to reduce the loss of life & property in and around Big Bear Valley. In trying to reach these objectives, we use the Insurance Services Office/Commercial Risk Services Fire Suppression Rating Schedule; NFPA Guidelines; and Federal, State, and local regulations.

Annual training goals of the department are:

Training at the company level is intended to develop skills related to fire suppression (i.e., hose, ladders, SCBA, forcible entry, salvage, tactics, etc.).

• Eight 3-hour drills per year

• Four 3-hour multiple company drills per year

• Two 3-hour night drills per year

• All members receive a minimum of 20 hours of training per month

Leadership classes for officers is stressed for single company operations, multiple company operations, tactics and strategy, and staff and command functions.

• Two days per year
  

Skill development in driving fire apparatus, operating pumps, and operating aerial equipment.

• Four 3-hour drills per year

Selected new drivers and operators need individual instruction in accordance with a documented program of training and testing.

• 40 hours of training during the past 12 months.

Training on hazardous materials.

• One 3-hour drill per year

• Twenty-four hours per year

A program is provided for entry level firefighters to obtain the State Fire Marshal FF II Certification.

• 240 hours followed by a proficiency exam.

Training on safety is essential for the prevention of occupational accidents, injuries, illnesses, or death and to reduce the severity of those accidents, injuries, and exposures that do occur.

• Two hours per month

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