Training

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Fireman walking down staircase with hose
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Regular Call Force Drills
The Call Force trains weekly on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 to 9:30. Drills are organized and conducted on a predetermined schedule. Each officer is assigned development and coordination of drills on a rotating basis. The University of Massachusetts and Amherst College often provide access to their facilities for training purposes. This brings variety and uniqueness to each drill. Topics may include ground ladders, aerial operations, highrise evolutions, search and rescue, pump operation, master streams and simulated fire attack. 
Recruit Training
All recruits complete an intensive recruit training program prior to being authorized for call response. All new members are trained to Massachusetts Firefighter 1 and 2 standards. Training is held on regular drill nights or depending upon schedules, an alternate night. Weekend programs are also held.

Fireman carrying other man down a ladder
Fireman practcing water rescue
Specialized Training
In addition to regular Call Force Drill that emphasizes basic firefighting skills, the Call Force will periodically conduct specialized training programs. These programs, which may be conducted on weekends include such topics as vehicle extrication, mass decontamination unit setup, ice rescue, firefighter self rescue, hazardous materials and use of the department’s specialty vehicles. Instructors may be Call Force officers or Career personnel.
Other Training Programs
Call Force members are encouraged and often take advantage of many training and educational programs offered by Local, State, and Federal agencies and organizations. Each year up to 4 members are sent to the National Fire Academy in Emmitsberg Maryland to attend the Mass. State Training Weekend. Call Force members are also invited to participate in Hampshire County Fire Defense courses and Mass Department of Fire Services programs offered in the area. These programs include the flashover simulator, Life Flight, aerial operations, firefighting skills, and fire officer development.
 

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