The three main cutting systems we utilize at Somerset Fire & Rescue are: Petrogen, oxy-acetylene, and an Arcair SLICE.
Last night, members reviewed the setup, operation, and maintenance of our Petrogen torch.
On Wednesday, April 14th, Station 56 hosted Mick Farrell of Top Floor Tactics. Mick delivered his “Fire academy to the fire floor. Why the disconnect?” class. Our members learned the importance of employing the right mindset, strategies, and tactics to be a more effective firefighter.
Station 56 hosted a ladder drill with Station 27. Our members got the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the operation of Ladder 27, climbing the aerial. Both companies worked together to practice ground ladder skills and hoisting equipment.
This week, our duty crews reviewed dive operations. They are very manpower and equipment-intensive. Members practiced assisting divers getting dressed, search patterns, utilizing our underwater communications system.
In addition to fire suppression, Somerset Fire & Rescue performs technical and water rescues for Franklin Fire District 1 and neighboring communities. If you’re interested in joining our team, send us a message to find out more about our membership process!
This week, during our nightly duty crews, members conducted training on our Tripod system. It is a versatile tool that can be utilized in many different ways depending on the situation, such as during a confined space or rope rescue. Members refreshed their knowledge of where the equipment is located on the apparatus and how to set it up efficiently.
Back to the basics! Last night, members got their hands on the irons and K12 to practice forcible entry techniques.
Members took advantage of today’s nice weather to put our Marine units in the water and refresh on operator, water rescue, and Sonar skills.
Today 7 of our members started the 1st day of a 4 day rapid deployment rescue and recovery course offered by Life Guard Systems. This is the last step to becoming full fledged rescue divers and dive tenders on our team. Along with us are divers from Lambertville FD as well as dive tenders from Millstone Valley (Station 28) and Elizabeth Ave (Station 26).
On July 20th we held our annual dive/boat drill at Donaldson Park. Our divers and tenders practiced suiting up , dive tending and search patterns. Members also practiced boat handling , docking , and how to right and overturned boat. Great day of training and hard work by all. Thank you to Millstone Valley (Station 28) for providing rehab and a cooling tent, and to East Millstone First Aid for providing ems coverage.
Saturday, May 11, 2019 Somerset diver participated in one of our yearly dive drills. Divers refreshed their skills and practiced emergency procedures. This was also a trial run for some new equipment and a chance to get our tenders some time on our shore based operations. A big thanks to The Cedar Hill Swim Club for the use of the pool.
