The Columbus Division of Fire is turning up the heat in more ways than one. As central Ohio sweltered under a blazing sun, the recruits of Class 123 Orange Company faced licking flames in their second 240 live burn at the Ohio Fire Academy last Wednesday.
Donning full gear amid soaring temperatures, these future firefighters practiced hose line advancements through the maze-like interior of a multi-story burn building, refining both teamwork and technique. As they moved steadfastly through tight corners and stairwells, each recruit cycled through various roles on the hose line, ensuring a versatile and well-rounded skill set. Columbus Division of Fire documented this evolution, noting the critical aspects of nozzle control under the tutelage of seasoned firefighters.
"Today went really well. This was their second burn, the last burn for their 240 program," Lt. Derek Kagey stated in an update posted on the Columbus Division of Fire's social media. Balancing the intensity of the exercise with an unusually high mercury reading posed an additional challenge. Nonetheless, Kagey expressed satisfaction with progress, observing how the recruits carried lessons from their first trial by fire forward and built on them.
The training, according to Kagey, tested more than just fire combat skills. The recruits' resilience shone as they navigated the amplified conditions, according to the Columbus Division of Fire, "It’s a little bit different in these kind of temperatures in their gear, especially with the pace we move with all the evolutions." The department's regimen of physical training and gear exercises was credited for their robust performance. Building on this foundation, 123 Orange Company is now set to advance into the engine operation segment of their academy training.
