Andover Firefighters Practiced Mayday and Rescue Procedures

ANDOVER, N.H. — September 28 — Members of the Andover Fire Department finished their monthly training session, which included equipment inspections, turnout gear drills, and a simulated firefighter rescue scenario.

The training started with firefighters checking their personal protective equipment to make sure all necessary gear was available and in good condition. They then put on their turnout gear in preparation for the drills. Firefighter Harper, who is the youngest member of the department, completed the gear-up process in 45 seconds.

Chief Stephen Barton led the team through an obstacle course that tested their ability to move in low-visibility conditions while wearing full protective gear and using self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). The first two-person team completed the course in just over three minutes.

The exercise then involved a simulated situation where a firefighter became lost and called for help with a Mayday signal.

A second team entered the course to find and rescue the simulated victim, finishing the rescue in about four minutes. A third team also went through the course, giving Firefighter Laquidara the chance to use an SCBA for the first time during training.

These drills helped reinforce the importance of equipment readiness, familiarity with air packs, effective communication, and teamwork during emergency situations. The New Hampshire Fire Academy’s training materials also emphasize Mayday procedures, firefighter survival skills, and rescue techniques as key components of emergency preparedness.

The session allowed the members to review essential skills and practice working together during a simulated rescue operation.