More than 200 firefighters from departments across the state participated in Winter Fire School at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem last weekend.
The two-day event provided both classroom instruction and hands-on training exercises designed to enhance firefighters' skills and improve their ability to protect lives, property and natural resources within their communities.
The 20th annual event -- hosted free of charge by the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) -- featured eight National Fire Academy courses covering topics such as community risk reduction, incident command, leadership and company operations, and wildland-urban interface operations. These specialized courses provided expert-led training in advanced topics, ensuring accessibility for departments with limited training budgets and strengthening the fire service statewide.
A highlight of Winter Fire School was the hands-on training sessions, which allowed participants to gain experience in a variety of real-world scenarios. They engaged in training on search and rescue techniques, forcible entry, hose handling, and water mapping and pump station applications.
Winter Fire School is strategically scheduled during a time of year when fire activity is typically lower, making it easier for firefighters to attend. It is held on the weekend to accommodate the schedules of the volunteer firefighters who comprise the bulk of Oregon's fire service.
