Welcome to the Training Division of Suwannee County Fire Rescue. Our mission is to provide comprehensive, hands-on training for our firefighters, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to respond to emergencies with the highest level of safety, effectiveness, and professionalism.
About Our Training Program
At Suwannee County Fire Rescue, we believe in continuous learning and development to ensure our personnel remain at the forefront of fire service best practices. Our Training Division is dedicated to providing both initial and ongoing training programs that focus on safety, technical skills, and tactical procedures. From basic firefighter training to advanced incident management and rescue techniques, we cover a wide range of topics to prepare our team for any situation.
Our Core Training Areas
1. Firefighting Techniques
- Fire suppression tactics
- Search and rescue operations
- Hose management and water supply
- Ladder operations and ventilation strategies
2. Rescue and Extrication
- Vehicle extrication
- Rope rescue
- Confined space rescue
- Water rescue techniques
3. Hazardous Materials Response
- Handling chemical spills and hazardous material incidents
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) training
- Decontamination procedures
4. Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
- Advanced First Aid and CPR
- Basic and advanced life support
- Trauma care and patient management in high-stress environments
Training Facilities
Our state-of-the-art training facilities are designed to simulate real-world emergency conditions, allowing firefighters to practice under controlled but realistic scenarios. Some of our training facilities include:
- Live Fire Training Props: Our live fire training towers and burn structures provide controlled environments for practicing fire suppression techniques.
- Rescue Simulations: From high-angle rescues to water rescues and trench rescues, our team practices in specialized rescue environments.
- Classroom Instruction: Our classrooms provide in-depth learning on fire science, equipment, safety procedures, and more.
Training for All Levels
Our training program is designed to meet the needs of every level of firefighter, from recruit to seasoned veteran:
- Recruit Firefighter Academy: New recruits undergo an intensive program that covers all the foundational skills needed for a career in fire rescue.
- Ongoing Professional Development: Experienced firefighters participate in regular drills and specialized courses to hone their skills and stay current with evolving fire rescue techniques and technologies.
- Leadership Development: Our leadership training programs ensure that our officers are equipped to manage teams and lead with confidence in high-pressure situations.
Commitment to Safety
Safety is our number one priority. Our training protocols emphasize the importance of situational awareness, teamwork, and safe operations in all aspects of firefighting. We adhere to the highest standards of safety and risk management to ensure that our personnel are well-prepared while minimizing potential hazards.
Contact Us
For more information about our Training Division or to inquire about training opportunities, please contact us:
Matt Garbett, Division Chief
Phone: 386-364-3406
Email: MattG@suwcountyfl,gov