Grand Junction Fire Department's Training Division

Training is a critical function for any modern fire service agency. Although the Training Division's primary customer is internal, we deliver the best service possible to our community by providing the most current and realistic training for all Fire Department personnel.

The Training Division develops the annual training plan and budget, provides educational and training opportunities, maintains training records and oversees certification programs. The goal of the Training Division is to provide Fire Department members with the knowledge, skills and abilities to support the mission of the Grand Junction Fire Department. The Division provides training to the Fire Department according to Federal, State, County, and City mandates. This is accomplished through training classes and activities scheduled for each fire crew throughout the year. Current Fire Department personnel hold more than 275 individual certifications. These certifications are evidence that firefighters have attained minimum competencies in the following areas of expertise: Emergency Medical Technician, Firefighter I and II, Driver/Operator Certification, Fire Service Instructor, Fire Officer I, and Hazardous Materials Awareness, Operations and Technician. Members are required to maintain these certifications throughout their career. Firefighters must obtain a required number of continuing education hours in each discipline per year in order to renew their certifications.

Firefighters participated in approximately 10,956 hours of training during the Year 2005 Training was conducted in seven major areas: Firefighting, Emergency Medical Services, Fire Prevention, Investigations, Hazardous Materials, Specialized Rescue and Miscellaneous training.

The Training Division uses a large multi-story building to conduct hands-on training. This structure has enabled the Department to focus on improving basic firefighting skills in areas such as laying hoselines, search and rescue techniques using self contained breathing appratus (SCBA) and ladder techniques.