Spencer, IN (May 5, 2007) - Governor Daniels today kicked off implementation of the first, state-funded local firefighter training program.  The courses will enable thousands of volunteer and full-time firefighters from across Indiana to learn and practice the latest techniques for extinguishing blazes and performing rescue maneuvers. 

"These devoted men and women have incredibly dangerous jobs and we are thankful they are always ready to respond in our time of need," Daniels said.  "These lessons provide the best training available at locations that are close to home."

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security developed the fire training system and will manage the program.  The department will be facilitating instruction at several regional training centers.  The new programs standardize training that was previously done independently by hundreds of fire departments. 

"Volunteer and full-time firefighters will receive the same comprehensive instruction," said Roger Johnson, Indiana State Fire Marshal.  "This will strengthen relationships between departments and increase the skills of first responders who are frequently placed in harm's way."

In 2006, Daniels signed into law House Enrolled Act 1099, which created the first statewide fire training system in Indiana's history.  Funding for the fire training systems comes from public safety fees paid on fireworks purchased in the state.  Just this week, the governor signed SEA 472, approved by the General Assembly, which doubles the  appropriation, to $2 million, to develop materials and to implement these critical firefighting instruction programs. 

The Indiana Fire Training System has three primary objectives:
·        Deliver consistent, high-quality training as closely to each firefighter's home as practical.
·        Build collaboration among Indiana fire departments and strong partnerships between state and local governments, as well as the private sector.
·        Increase the response capabilities and expertise of the Indiana Fire Service Sector.

-30-

« Back to News Release List

Link to this event: