During probationary training, all new members receive HazMat Awareness training. This training is designed to educate the first responder who, in the course of his or her duties, may be called to a situation involving hazardous materials. Common hazardous materials responses include motor vehicle accidents involving fuel spills or being called to a report of an unknown substance or odor. At the Awareness level, personnel are training to be able to identify a potential Haz Mat situation and to call for additional assistance.
During the Firefighter II program, members receive additional training to the Operations level that allows them to perform additional steps to help mitigate a HazMat situation, such as creating a dam to prevent fuel runoff from entering a waterway. In addition to the 24-plus hours required to become certified to the Awareness and Operations level, members routinely participate in training exercises to better prepare for HazMat responses.
Technician Training
As the designated technical rescue department for the Town of Greenwich, many SBVFD members have received additional training above the Operational level. Haz Mat Technician level training involves over 160 hours worth of classroom and hands-on training. During this program, members learn advanced chemical identification techniques and how to properly handle a Haz Mat situation in an offensive mode.
CBRNE/WMD Training
Unfortunately, not all hazardous materials responses are accidental in nature. SBVFD members are specially trained to identify and respond to hazardous materials incidents involving chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear or explosive devices (CBRNE) or otherwise known as ‘weapons of mass destruction.’ After the events of September 11, 2001, having the appropriate equipment and training to properly respond to such incidents is crucial.
