CONSTANTIA, NY — August 31 — Members of the Constantia Volunteer Fire Department participated in hands-on training provided by the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs (NYSAFC) during the 2026 training season.The department was represented by Assistant Chief Dillon Kinsey, Captain Maxwell Yonkers, Lieutenant Gordon Upham, Lieutenant Mike Haight, and Lieutenant Russ Tompkins.

The training focused on the responsibilities of First-In Officers and managing fires in hoarder situations.

The courses offered firefighters and officers practical guidance that can be used during emergency responses.NYSAFC provided hands-on programs that covered various aspects of fireground operations, officer duties, fire behavior, forcible entry, ladder use, and other essential skills.

NYSAFC explained that its training programs combine classroom learning with practical exercises for emergency service personnel.

The hands-on training was designed to give firefighters real-world experience with tasks and conditions they might face during actual incidents.

The Constantia members shared the knowledge and experience gained from the training with their department, enhancing the overall skills available for future fireground operations and company training.