By BOB SHRALUKA
WZBD.com
The Fire departments of Adams County have announced plans for the second Fire Ops 101.
The event, done in partnership with Portland’s Local 5356 Firefighters Union, will be held Sept. 25-26 at the Monroe Fire Department and Portland’s training grounds.
The program offers community leaders, elected officials, and media representatives a first-hand look at what it takes to be a firefighter, a news release said.
Participants suit up in full gear and take part in simulated fire and rescue scenarios, including: entering smoke-filled structures, extinguishing fires, performing vehicle extrication, and responding to medical emergencies.
All of that is done, of course, under the guidance of seasoned fire and EMS professionals.
“This is a rare opportunity for our community leaders to experience the intense physical and mental demands our firefighters face every day, said Tony Lothridge, the Decatur Fire Department’s fire marshal.
“Understanding these challenges helps build stronger support for public safety initiatives and the critical resources needed to protect our citizens.”
Lothridge said participants will gain insight into the following:
* The complexity and danger of firefighting and emergency response.
* The importance of proper staffing, training and equipment.
* The physical demands and occupational hazards firefighters face daily.
MEET & GREET: The event will begin with a “meet & greet” at 6 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 25, at the Monroe Fire Department, 233 Tower Dr. in Monroe.
Anyone interested in participating in the program should attend what will be, essentially, a signup period.
The hands-on experience then will be come the next day, 7:30 a.m.to 2 p.m., in Portland behind Moser Engineering, 102 Perfomance Dr.
The program was held in this area for the first time last year.
Abby Wilder, a member of Decatur City Council, and Jamie Gephart, Decatur’s community coordinator, participated in the event.
Geneva town officials Tina Booth and Len Burry, along with Thunderbird Products employee John Workinger, also were part of the group.
“The day was incredible,” Wilder said later. “I couldn’t believe all the things I got to experience and learn.”
Adams County fire departments are located in Decatur, Preble, Monroe, Berne and Geneva.
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