Aetna H., H., and L. Co.: Training: Probationary Training Class (NFDI)

NFD I	All of our probationary members must participant in our orientation training class which is held bimonthly for one weekend. During the class, new members are introduced to the fire service, Aetna's history, a four station tour of Aetna, and basic operations on the fire ground. Look below to see some of the different modules that one would go through on the typical weekend class. Once a probationary member has completed this course satisfactorily, they are then cleared to ride Aetna's apparatus.
NFD II	Offered twice a year is the advanced probationary class, known as NFD II. Here new members are oriented with our air packs (Scott) and more advanced fire ground skills. They also cover haz-mat, ladder, and rescue company operations. Look for a web page in near future with more information on this class.
DSFS	All new members are also encouraged to take Delaware State Fire School Basic Fire fighting and Structural Fire fighting during their first year.
First Day of NFD I
Welcome & History	The Training Deputy makes an appearance and welcomes all new new members and ride-alongs! Also, a brief history of our company is given to give new members an idea of how important our history is.
Gear Sizing	All new members are then sized for gear! They get a full set of turnout gear, boots, helmet, gloves, and a hood. Each member is told how each piece helps to protect them and what the gear will not protect them from. This is the gear they will use for future fire fighting and rescue duties with Aetna.
Station Tour	The station tour orients members to our four stations. They have a chance to look at all of the apparatus, the banquet hall, meeting room, gym, and other areas of the company.
Hitting the Hydrant	The first fire fighting skill the new members will learn is how to "hit the hydrant". This is a very valuable skill for a "probie" since it allows an inexperienced member to do a very important task--get the engine water!!!
Attack Lines	New members learn to pull our assortment of attack lines. They are taught proper handling techniques as well as some of the basic physics involved with hand line operations. Again, this is an important task for "probies" as they may be asked to "run the line" to the front door while the crew prepares for interior operations.
Ambulance Orientation	The busiest units in our department are the EMS units. The ambulances run approximately 6000 calls a year and provide the community with quality EMS care. All new members are required to get their CPR and AED certification A.S.A.P. (Also provided through Aetna)! Here they are shown where equipment is located, operation of that equipment, and what to expect riding as a third or fourth member of an ambulance crew.
Second Day of NFD I
Ladders	New members learn about the different ladders we carry on our apparatus and their different uses. They learn how to "throw" all the ladders to a structure and the safest technique in climbing them with or without a tool. Those who are not comfortable with climbing are encouraged to try.
Intro to Vehicle Rescue	A module on vehicle rescue, a frequent call, teaches new members the different tools that are used in extrication. They are taught how to operate them and how to play a supportive role in extrication.
Power Tools	New members are instructed how to start an assortment of different power tools ranging from large fans to K-12 saws. They are taught the various uses and proper maintenance of them.
Test	The new members finish their weekend with a test of retained information taught to them over the weekend. They will each be soon riding fire engines and ambulances to serve the community!