S-130 Firefighter Training

Firefighter training is crucial for survival.

S-130 firefighter training, or universal firefighter survival training, is crucial for all firefighters. Training programs vary among different counties and states, but there are general guidelines that are followed by most firefighters and fire stations.

Requirements for Entry Into Training Program

Recruits must complete 600 hours of training over a course of 12 to 14 weeks before becoming an active-duty firefighter. Training typically takes place at a local fire academy, which is run by a fire department. Academic coursework is also included, such as courses in physics, chemistry and mathematics in relation to fire situations. Recruits must be at least 18 years old (though some departments raise the age to 21), have a high school diploma or equivalent, have a clean criminal record and have corrected 20/20 vision.

Smoke Survival

Smoke, when inhaled, can have lethal effects on people and produces troubled breathing, death, asthma and lung inflammation. Training to maneuver in smoke filled-environments requires firefighters to endure a chamber filled with nontoxic smoke. This helps to build tolerance to smoke.

Car Fire Survival

The key to safely extinguishing a car fire is to open the hood of the vehicle. That way, water can be efficiently applied to the engine, interior and dashboard area. Firefighters are trained with a burning vehicle substitute, often the exterior of a car that has been set ablaze. Firefighters are then instructed to douse the aforementioned areas with fire retardant and water. If trapped in a burning vehicle, firefighters are taught to kick out windows and dashboards with their feet and escape.

Wall Collapse Survival

When the commanding officer suspects the possibility of a wall collapse, the chief or fire officer should keep firefighters away from the front wall of the building. If caught in a wall collapse, firefighters are taught to shield their abdomen and chest area with their hands in order to ensure that the lungs do not collapse. Firefighters often have location beacons on their suits, so it is not necessary to make noise unless rescuers are close by.

Cold Weather Firefighting Survival

Water should always be kept running to prevent hoses and hydrants from freezing. Firefighters are instructed to exit the firefight immediately and seek medical attention in case of uncontrollable shaking, dizziness and other symptoms of hypothermia.

References

• Training.NWCG.gov: S-130 Firefighter Training
• Firerescue1: Be prepared for a wall collapse