Waterloo, NY — August 17 — Firefighters from the Waterloo Fire Department and Junius Fire Department participated in self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) training on August 17, allowing them to refresh and maintain their skills for use during interior fireground operations.

The training was organized as a combined effort between the two departments.

SCBA training is essential for firefighters who may respond to environments that are immediately dangerous to life and health.The exercises included proper use of equipment, movement while wearing the air pack, air management, and collaborating with other firefighters while dressed in protective gear.

According to New York State's Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, the SCBA/Interior Firefighting Operations course is designed for firefighters who will work as interior structural firefighters or in immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH) areas.

The training covers hands-on SCBA skills and interior firefighting procedures.

The joint session also offered Waterloo and Junius firefighters the chance to work with personnel from a neighboring department.

Being familiar with each other's personnel and operating methods can help improve coordination during incidents where multiple departments are involved.

The training was led by members of the Waterloo Fire Department, located at 39 East Water Street, with Junius Volunteer Fire Company personnel taking part.

The August 17 training session provided another opportunity for firefighters to keep their SCBA equipment skills sharp and to reinforce the knowledge required before entering a hazardous environment.