CHELMSFORD, MA — February 3rd — As part of a three-week driver training program, the newest recruit firemen from the Chelmsford Fire Department completed their training with an emphasis on Ladder 1. Recruits are now learning the skills necessary to handle fire gear safely and successfully after completing the department's internal academy. Early in their careers, new hires may be expected to drive in departments with two-person businesses.

The curriculum complies with national guidelines for training equipment drivers and incorporates both classroom learning and real-world settings. During the afternoon evolutions, the Training Division received assistance from on-duty firemen Aubrey Pine and Brandon Higgins. Before enrolling at the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy later this month, recruits will continue their internal training.