On Saturday, April 19, 2014, officers from DTVFD, observed DTVFD recruits participating in live automotive fire training. Combined with trainees from other departments, these participants are currently enrolled in the Firefighter I and II certification classes at the Public Safety Academy in Nokesville, VA.

Today’s event precedes future training burns which will encompass all of the skills and education these men and women have developed over the past few months of class. All of the students are being evaluated on their proficiency in the safe and efficient deployment of tools and hose lines in progressive fire related scenarios. Several instructors from other departments and the Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue were on-hand to evaluate and provide a safe environment for the trainees.

Upon successful completion of the practical application skills and hundreds of hours of academics and testing; the remaining recruits will ultimately be recognized as certified firefighters in the Commonwealth of Virginia. This fundamental training is the equivalent of which all paid or volunteer firefighters must complete to be certified in the State.

Although there is much more to be accomplished, everyone showed all of the requisite proficiency and motivation to carry them on to more advanced training in the fire service to protect the residents and visitors to Prince William County.

(All photos used with permission.)