March 27, 1977

Fire certification class set

       Indiana firefighters both paid and volunteer, are the targets for the state’s new firefighter certification course which is available to be taught by local fire departments. Johnson County firefighters already have one certification course underway through the Franklin Fire Department, with another course likely to be started in the near future. Members of the Franklin Fire Department plus some members of the Whiteland Rural Volunteer Fire Department, the White River Township Volunteer Fire Department and the New Whiteland Volunteer Fire Department are currently enrolled in the Franklin course, which is being taught by Franklin Lieutenant Jack Matthews. According to Matthews, the course, which is set up by state fire officials, covers a wide range of techniques, plans, and theories relating to safe and effective firefighting. Included are sections on pre-planning and preparation before a fire breaks out, quick and safe work during a fire, and efficient operation of fire equipment. The course began in February, and will run through August, Matthews said. The total class time will be approximately 100 hours. Certification is important because states which don’t set up individual certification courses are likely to end up having to adopt federal guidelines, according to the instructor. Certification may also mean new sources of funds in the future. The Franklin classes run from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Tuesday’s, Wednesday’s and Thursday’s for basic training-those who have lesser amount of experience in firefighting. The advanced classes run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on those same days. Besides those in the Franklin Department, three members of the New Whiteland Department are in the Franklin class. Also in the Franklin class are five members of the White River Township Department and one member of the New Whiteland Rural Department. New Whiteland representatives are Kathy Corey, Bill Carpenter and Jim LaGrant. The Whiteland Rural representative is Larry Tames. The White River Township representatives are Glenn Duthie (shown in photo below - 1st from left), Dale Wemmer, Donald Wayman, Randy Walters, and Dale Bancroft.  Matthews said that his course is generally geared for those volunteers who work nights or can get away during daytime hours. He added the future course may be started for those who work during the day.  (Reprinted with permission of the Daily Journal)

 

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