FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 18, 2021
CFD conducts nearly three months of training to certify Hazardous Materials Technicians to handle spills and emergencies.
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA - On March 13th, seven firefighters from Charlottesville Fire Department and three firefighters from Albemarle County completed nearly three months of intensive training to handle hazardous materials spills, releases, and exposures.
The newly certified Hazardous Materials Technicians began their training on January 5th at the Fontaine Firehouse #10 in Charlottesville. In partnership with the Virginia Office of Emergency Management, this course was the first in-house HazMat Tech offered in the region. Specially trained CFD Instructors led the students through various chemistry lectures and hands-on exercises at the Fontaine Training Center.
In October 2019, CFD and the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) started preparing for this class. To ensure success, CFD committed thirteen firefighters and captains to become HazMat-trained instructors. CFD instructors significantly reduce the department's cost and staffing burdens and allow in-house training at the highest level.
Now that the classroom portion is complete, the newly trained HazMat Techs will work through the next twelve months to complete additional study and training to meet their certification requirements. The Charlottesville Fire Department congratulates the seven firefighters from Charlottesville Fire Department and three firefighters from Albemarle County.
The staff at Fontaine Firehouse #10 operate HazMat Engine 10 and HazMat 1 and provide a specialized response to the greater Charlottesville area.
Media Contact
Mike Rogers
Deputy Chief
City of Charlottesville
434-970-3244
rogersm@charlottesville.gov