Training for New Members
New members of West Mead 1 are expected to pursue weekly training with the fire company and complete some state-certified courses within their first two years of service. Some courses such as ICS-100 and IS-700 may be taken online. Other courses such as Bloodborne Pathogens and CPR with AED are provided on a regular basis for all members.
Our training path flowchart shows all mandatory training with additional certifications for specific functions.
Descriptions of Required Courses
IS-100.C is an interactive online course from FEMA providing an introduction to the Incident Command System. The course is available here: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-100.c.
The IS Program requires a FEMA SID. You can register for one at https://cdp.dhs.gov/femasid/register.
Course length: 2 hours
NIMS IS-700.B is an interactive online course from FEMA providing an overview of the National Incident Management System (NIMS). The course is available here: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-700.b.
The IS Program requires a FEMA SID. You can register for one at https://cdp.dhs.gov/femasid/register.
Course length: 3.5 hours
Bloodborne Pathogens teaches emergency responders how to protect themselves and others from being exposed to blood or blood-containing materials, and how to respond if they are exposed. This annual course meets OSHA requirements for bloodborne pathogens training.
Course length: 4 hours
CPR with AED is an instructor-led course that teaches adult and child CPR and AED use, infant CPR, and how to relieve choking in adults, children, and infants. This certification must be renewed every two years.
Course length: 4 hours
Basic Vehicle Rescue Awareness introduces first responders to a systematic approach to rescue, including hazard recognition and control, incident command, situational assessment, and personal protection in addition to the requisite tools, equipment, and techniques of vehicle rescue.
Course length: 16 hours
HAZMAT Awareness for First Responders prepares first responders to recognize and identify hazardous materials by container and DOT/NFPA markings, and to prepare to respond to incidents involving hazardous materials while protecting themselves and others from exposure.
This course is available online through TrainPA. A free TrainPA account is required. The course itself is located at https://www.train.org/pa/course/1050815/.
Course length: 1 hour
HAZMAT Operations prepares first responders to participate in Hazardous Materials defensive or containment operations. An annual refresher is required.
Course length: 24 hours
Introduction to the Fire Service (ELIS) introduces new firefighters to basic information including an overview of the fire service, fire service organization,
firefighter safety, personal protective equipment, tools and emergency lighting, and backing apparatus.
Course length: 16 hours
Fire Ground Support (ELFS) is designed to equip entry-level firefighters with basic knowledge, skills, and abilities as they relate to fire ground emergency scene
operations.
Course length: 32 hours
Forms and Guidelines
These guidelines are provided for use by West Mead #1 Volunteer Fire Company.
Apparatus Virtual Tours
These virtual tours introduce you to the features and contents of our apparatus. Each engine compartment is identified along with its contents. Pump operators and firefighters should be familiar with the contents of each compartment.
Training Links
West Mead #1 VFC is not responsible for content on the training websites linked in this section. If you have questions about particular courses qualifying for certification, please check with an officer.
TRAIN PA, including certified online Hazmat Awareness class
Videos
View our selection of training videos on our Videos page.