On Monday, May 11, 2026, members of the Chestertown Volunteer Fire Company participated in our bi-weekly company training night. This drill focused on reinforcing several core fire ground operations while also providing newer members an opportunity to continue building their skills and confidence on the emergency scene. Experienced members also used the evening as a refresher on foundational firefighting techniques that are critical during initial fire attack operations.

The training was divided into three separate hands-on stations led by Lieutenant Willis with assistance from Assistant Chief Thompson and Lieutenant Sadzinski. Members rotated through each station throughout the evening to ensure everyone had the opportunity to practice and demonstrate the required skills.

One station focused on the deployment and repacking of pre-connected attack lines. Members practiced properly pulling hose lines from the apparatus, advancing them toward a simulated fire area, and efficiently repacking the hose so it is ready for the next emergency response. Emphasis was placed on teamwork, communication, and proper hose handling techniques to improve speed and efficiency on the fire ground.

Another station focused on ground ladder operations. Members reviewed proper lifting, carrying, and placement techniques for various ground ladders carried on our apparatus. This portion of the training stressed ladder safety, proper positioning, and the importance of coordinated movements while operating around structures and other personnel.

The final station focused on “masking up,” a term commonly used in the fire service to describe donning a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) facepiece and connecting it to the regulator in order to safely operate in hazardous environments such as smoke, carbon monoxide, and other dangerous atmospheric conditions. Members practiced completing this task quickly and correctly while maintaining situational awareness and ensuring all equipment was properly secured.

After successfully demonstrating each skill set, members rotated to the next station to continue sharpening their abilities and gaining additional hands-on experience.

The Chestertown Volunteer Fire Company also utilizes a probationary training book for all new members regardless of previous experience. This multi-page training guide outlines the many skills, responsibilities, and tasks expected of members within the company. As members successfully complete and demonstrate each requirement, company officers sign off on the individual task. Training nights such as this are extremely valuable in helping members progress through these milestones while building confidence, consistency, and teamwork within the organization.