KENNEBUNK, ME — August 21 — Fifty firefighters from the Kennebunk Fire-Rescue, Arundel Fire-Rescue, and Wells Fire Department participated in the Tri-Town Hazardous Materials Operations and Technician Refresher training in Kennebunk.

The training emphasized atmospheric monitoring and improved firefighters' ability to use meters, interpret readings, and make effective tactical decisions.

Al Nygren led the classroom session before the crews moved on to a hands-on practical exercise.

The scenario was designed to simulate an ammonia release involving a patient who needed rescue, gross decontamination, treatment, and transport.

This exercise allowed firefighters to practice integrating monitoring, personal protective equipment, rescue, decontamination, and medical operations in a single incident.

The York County Emergency Management Agency was also involved in the training.

NFPA 1010 now includes the operation of an air-monitoring instrument as a performance requirement for Firefighter I, while NFPA 470 outlines additional competencies for hazardous materials detection and monitoring.

For the fire crews, the main takeaway is clear: understand what the meter is indicating before sending personnel into a hazardous area.

The training also highlights the importance of realistic scenarios, enabling firefighters to practice decision-making in a controlled environment before encountering a real incident.