Rockland, ME - The Rockland Maine Fire & EMS Department conducted hands-on training at the Mid-Coast School of Technology, focusing on hydrant operations and integrating a newly introduced hydrant assist valve into their water supply procedures.

Firefighters worked through practical evolutions centered on establishing a reliable hydrant connection and then enhancing that supply without interrupting water flow. The hydrant assist valve allows crews to quickly put water on the fire and later add an engine to boost pressure or volume—eliminating the need to shut down operations during critical moments.

On August 15 in Rockland, Knox County, crews trained on improving water supply flexibility and efficiency, ensuring they can adapt to changing fireground demands without compromising suppression efforts.

Throughout the training, members developed familiarity with setup, coordination, and real-time adjustments using the new equipment. The department emphasized that mastering these tools ahead of time strengthens operational readiness, allowing for smoother, safer, and more effective performance during emergency incidents.