Twenty-four
firefighters participated in the monthly county-wide (Pathways) training
at Station # 19, 23-October. The Training Division, assisted by several
firefighters, constructed a pallet maze behind Station # 19. The 832
square foot prop is designed to build confidence in the firefighter's
ability to navigate through obstacles in zero visibility conditions.
Each firefighter had the opportunity to crawl through the maze
performing a simulated left hand search pattern. Full PPE and SCBA were
worn during the exercise. Their flash hoods were pulled over the
firefighter's mask to simulate darkness. During the exercise, personnel
encountered low obstacles, an entanglement scenario, a collapse area and
several dead ends. Instructors followed each participant during the
exercise to coach them through the though spots. Several firefighters
were impressed with the exercise and took the opportunity to travel
around the maze a second time.
Being constructed
of used pallets, the prop was inexpensive to build and allows the
Training Division to ability to modify or alter the maze with little
difficulty.
The Pathways
Training sessions are held the fourth Thursday of every month at 1900 at
Station # 19 and are open to firefighters from all County Stations.
