This is a "hybrid" type course with most of the course work beginning on March 8, 2024 and ending on April 26/30, 2024. Participants will complete the work on their own and at their own pace, under the following guidelines:

1. The chapter quizzes and tests for chapters 1 through 5 must be completed by 08:00 on April 1.

2. The chapter quizzes and tests for chapters 6 through 10 must be completed by 08:00 on April 26.

3. Participants must score a 70 percent or higher on each quiz and test to move on to the next chapter quiz or test. Participants have 2 chances to successfully complete each quiz or test.

4. Chapter quizzes are not timed, so participants are encouraged to use their textbook if they are unsure of an answer while completing the quizzes.

5. Chapter tests are timed, with the time allowed for each test proportional to the number of questions in the test. For chapter tests, the total time allowed accounts for an average of 90 seconds per question. 

6. There will be activities assigned during the course, which the participants will submit to the instructor on or before the last day of the course. Plenty of notice will be given to participants

7. Half of the class will meet at 09:00 on Friday, April 26 to complete the last activities. The other half will meet on Tuesday, April 30 to complete the last activities.

8. On the two days listed in item number 7, participants will each present on a topic to the other participants there in that session. Details of that activity will be distributed by March 29th.   

This course is going to be run like an adult learning course in which each participant is responsible for setting aside time to work through the course materials. As listed above, the first five chapters must be completed by April 1. That is so that you don’t procrastinate too long. My suggestion for you is to set a goal of completing two chapters per week, so that you have all ten completed by the weekend of April 12th. That would give you two weeks of cushion time.

Once the course activities have been completed and everyone has successfully completed required course testing, a date will be set up for MO Division of Fire Safety certification testing. That will likely take place at the Cottleville FPD in our training room. The state’s certification test for Instructor 1 certification consists of 100 multiple choice questions from their testing bank. 

Note: Anything and everything listed in chapters 1 through 10 in the IFSTA Fire and Emergency Services Instructor 9th Edition textbook is fair game for their test. So, taking the time to read the chapters, reviewing the lesson outlines, and reviewing the powerpoint presentations on the IFSTA ResourceOne site is all highly suggested.     

In addition to the DFS certification test, once the course has been successfully completed, participants will receive a "task book" from the Division of Fire Safety that they will have to complete within 365 days. We will review that packet on the first day of class, and again on the last day of class as needed.

Throughout this class or course, participants are welcome and encouraged to reach out to the instructor for guidance or clarification on course work. I want all of you to be successful, so please reach out to me if you need assistance.     

Fire Service Instructor I Offered by Crowder College 

Covers the presentation skills needed by new instructors. Topics include lesson plan preparation, presentation skill, using audiovisual equipment, identifying learning objectives, questions, tests, evaluation instruments, scheduling training sessions, and the supervision/coordination of the activities of other instructors. Meets NFPA 1041 standards. Curriculum used will be the latest version of IFSTA Fire and Emergency Services Instructor. 

Online course content: Begins March 30, 2020 All online content must be completed by May 8, 2020 Practical skills practice and evaluation: May 9, 2020 Location: Crowder College 4020 Main St. Cassville, MO 65625 Cost: 

Free Call (417) 489-4554 or email f_14@hotmail.com if you have questions.

Successful completion of this course enables students to apply for Fire Instructor I certification testing with the Missouri Division of Fire Safety under IFSAC and Pro Board accreditation. 

"This free training opportunity is provided by the Missouri Division of Fire Safety - Fire Education/Advisory Commission."

Fire Service Instructor I Offered by Crowder College 

Covers the presentation skills needed by new instructors. Topics include lesson plan preparation, presentation skill, using audiovisual equipment, identifying learning objectives, questions, tests, evaluation instruments, scheduling training sessions, and the supervision/coordination of the activities of other instructors. Meets NFPA 1041 standards. Curriculum used will be the latest version of IFSTA Fire and Emergency Services Instructor. 

Online course content: Begins September 1, 2021 All online content must be completed by October 29, 2021 Practical skills practice and evaluation: October 30, 2021 Location: Nevada Fire Department 316 W. Cherry  Nevada, MO 64772      Cost: There is no cost for this course.

Free Call (417) 489-4554 or email f_14@hotmail.com if you have questions.

Successful completion of this course enables students to apply for Fire Instructor I certification testing with the Missouri Division of Fire Safety under IFSAC and Pro Board accreditation. 

"This free training opportunity is provided by the Missouri Division of Fire Safety - Fire Education/Advisory Commission."

This is a Blended course, and this is your online portion to complete the Structural Firefighter-2 course

This course covers the FAA requirements for the FAR 139 meeting the A/C 150 / 5210-17C 1.2.2.1 Where is states "Once ARFF firefighters have completed initial training, they must receive
recurrent instruction every 12 consecutive calendar months (CCM).
Recurrent training is defined as that training provided as often as necessary
AC 150/5210-17C 6/12/2015
1-2
but at least once every 12 CCM to enable ARFF firefighters to maintain a
satisfactory level of proficiency.

IN Firefighter Driver Operator General and Pumper

May 2024 at Rensselaer FD

Course Description 

Indiana Driver Operator General and Pumper: This class is designed prepare the firefighter for certification testing through classroom learning and hands on training. The student will be expected to read the assigned material before class. We will be handing out quizzes to be completed before class or using IFSTA Moodle. Although there will be classroom presentation, it will focus on information that can’t be covered out in the field. If you don’t understand something you read, the class will begin with a questions and answers session to try and answer those questions. Then there will be an opportunity to go over the quiz that was assigned. We will then discuss certain topics from the book as to how they may apply. The bulk of the time will concentrate on the skills, understanding what is expected, how to obtain the information, applying knowledge learned from the book and evaluating your work. You must attend all classes to be eligible to take the test. If you must miss a day, it is up to you to make up the material. It will be your responsibility to schedule time between you and an instructor to catch up.

Course Logistics

This class is based on the recently updated curriculum for Indiana Driver Operator certification. The book we will use is IFSTA Pumping and Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator Handbook 3^rd ed. You should be able to access an E book from your IFSTA account, so there will not be any hard copies available. Individuals or Fire Departments now may apply for free IFSTA eLibrary subscriptions via https://on.in.gov/ifsta-library-request. Each user must have an IFSTA ResourceOne account to access these publications. ResourceOne accounts can be created via https://moodle.ifsta.org/. Questions regarding the IFSTA eLibrary should be directed to Shelly Elliott.

We will be doing all the driving and such in and around Rensselaer. If several members attend from one department, you will be expected to provide a fire engine from your department. This will allow you to familiarize yourself with your own equipment and give us more than one piece of apparatus to use. Everyone will need to show a valid driver’s license prior to being allowed to participate in the hands-on portion.

Prerequisites

Driver’s licensee and Driver Operator General (for Driver Operator Pumper)

Dates All Times CST

May 1, 8, 15 - 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm

May 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19 - 9:00 am to 6:00 pm

Written test TBD

Instructors                                                                 Evaluator

Fabian Martinez (219) 689-7118                                Rob Grady (219) 644-9331

Will Sonntag   (219) 712-0803           

Matt Kodicek (219) 808-4230

George Humphrey (219) 608-4665

Driver Operator General

Driver Operator Pumper

May 1, 8, 15 - 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm are lecture days

May 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19 - 9:00 am to 6:00 pm are skills days

May 4

Skills 2-1 to 2-9 and hopefully start some of the skill 3’s

May 5 

Skills 3-1 to 3-5 

15-1 to 15-5

May 11

Eval and start DOP skills

May 12

Skills 4-1 to 4-5 and 7-1

May 18

Skills 10-1 to 10-7

May 19 eval

IN FF DOG SKILLS

IN DOP SKILLS

Update on location. 

Class will be held at the classroom at Whitestown station 272

Located at 6800 S. Indianapolis Rd. Whitestown, IN. 46075. 

Overview This five day course includes approximately 30 hours of classroom instruction, 10 hours of practical skills demonstration, approximately 8 hours of out of class practical skills research and preparation, and 8 hours of in-class skills demonstration. Students must be prepared to complete reading and skills preparation out of class. The course provides firefighting personnel with the knowledge and skills to meet the standards described in NFPA 1041. Classroom instruction and activities will be held at MADE @ Plainfield. 

About this event

This is a hybrid NFPA Fire Officer 1 course presented by DPSST. Once students have sent Ryan Frizzell at Ryan.frizzell@dpsst.oregon.gov their email he will enroll you into this course through Resource One. Students will complete all modules with quizzes and tests. Prior to the in-person portion of the course, students must have 80% or higher on all tests and quizzes and complete all course work. The 2 days in person class will be full of activities and review of course materials. This course offers the building blocks of leadership and personnel management in the fire service. This class is best for people that are currently in a leadership role or will soon be in a leadership role.

• Dress for the class is business casual or Class B uniform. Fire T-shirts allowed.
• Students will have a task book initiated but will not be completely signed off.
• Class will be held from 9am to 5pm with a 1-hour lunch both days.
• Students must be affiliated with an Oregon fire department.
• Students must be, or close to completing, NFPA Firefighter 2 and NFPA Instructor 1.

·       For questions or more information please contact:

·       Ryan Frizzell

·       Fire Training Coordinator

·     (971) 433-7904

·       Ryan.frizzell@dpsst.oregon.gov

Class Overview:

This course is at least 24 hours of classroom, self-study instruction, and skills preparation for group activities. There will be assigned coursework, quizzes, and tests to be completed via ResourceOne. There are at least 8 hours of practical skills preparation, demonstration, and evaluation. All classes will meet on a shift-friendly schedule from 1300-1700 each week unless denoted otherwise on the schedule.

Course Location(s):

Ellettsville Fire Department St. 71

Training and Conference Room

5080 W. St. Rd. 46

Bloomington, In 47404

FIRE INVESTIGATOR COURSE

Invite-Only Joint Fire and Law Enforcement Training

Hybrid Delivery | 14 Sessions | 56 Total Instructional Hours | Maximum 4 Online Sessions Recommended

Course completion establishes a shared training baseline. It does not independently confer certification, law-enforcement authority, appointment to a Special Investigation Unit, or authority beyond the student’s agency role.

1. Course Identification

Implementation Status This document is a recommended local curriculum and syllabus. The host agency should verify any separate UFRA, IFSAC, Pro Board, state certification, accreditation, testing, or instructor-qualification requirements before representing the course as a certification program.

2. Course Purpose

The purpose of the Fire Investigator Course is to prepare selected fire and law enforcement personnel to operate safely, professionally, consistently, and collaboratively during fire and explosion investigations. The course establishes a common operational foundation for personnel who may support or be assigned to a future joint Special Investigation Unit.

Instruction emphasizes systematic scene examination, scene safety, fire behavior, documentation, evidence preservation, hypothesis development, hypothesis testing, interagency coordination, professional report writing, case preparation, and courtroom presentation. The course is intended to strengthen investigative capability while preserving the legal authority, responsibilities, and chain of command of each participating agency.

3. Curriculum Design

·   The course may be delivered through a combination of in-person and live online instruction. The instructor and host agency may determine the delivery method for individual sessions based on course needs, student availability, facilities, and the ability to meet the stated learning objectives.

·   Recommended delivery balance: at least 10 of the 14 sessions should be conducted in person. No more than four sessions, representing up to 16 instructional hours, should ordinarily be delivered online. A greater online portion should be used only when the instructor can provide equivalent engagement, supervision, participation, and evaluation.

·   Lecture, reading, discussion, chapter review, legal foundations, documentation concepts, and case analysis are generally appropriate for online delivery. Hands-on scene work, safety demonstrations, equipment use, documentation exercises, evidence handling, practical evaluations, and the integrated final exercise are strongly recommended for in-person delivery.

·   The host agency retains discretion to adjust the delivery schedule. Any online session shall remain live, instructor-led, interactive, and subject to the remote participation requirements contained in this syllabus.

4. Student Selection and Prerequisites

·   Attendance is by invitation only and should be based on agency need, investigative responsibility, professional maturity, availability for future callout response, and potential assignment to the Special Investigation Unit.

·   Students should have sufficient fire-service or law-enforcement experience to understand incident command, scene control, professional documentation, and interagency operations.

·   Students must be able to safely participate in field exercises involving uneven terrain, debris, personal protective equipment, kneeling, lifting, photography, measurement, and extended scene examination.

·   Students may not use respiratory protection unless all applicable medical evaluation, fit-testing, training, and agency requirements have been completed.

·   The instructor may require preliminary reading, agency policy review, or baseline knowledge checks before the first class session.

5. Program Learning Outcomes

·   Describe the role, authority, responsibilities, ethical obligations, and limitations of a fire investigator.

·   Operate within the incident management system and coordinate with fire, law enforcement, utilities, forensic laboratories, medical examiners, prosecutors, insurers, and other interested parties.

·   Conduct and continually update a site safety assessment, select appropriate protective measures, and stop investigative activity when conditions are unsafe.

·   Apply foundational fire dynamics and building-construction knowledge to scene examination without relying on unsupported pattern interpretation.

·   Recognize building systems, fire protection systems, utilities, electrical systems, renewable-energy systems, and stored-energy hazards relevant to fire investigations.

·   Secure, document, and process a fire or explosion scene using a systematic and reproducible approach.

·   Identify, collect, package, preserve, label, transfer, and document evidence while maintaining chain of custody and minimizing contamination.

·   Conduct exterior and interior examinations and integrate physical evidence, witness information, fire effects, suppression activity, and scene documentation.

·   Develop and test origin and cause hypotheses against the totality of available data and properly retain an undetermined conclusion when the evidence does not support a specific cause.

·   Prepare clear investigative notes, diagrams, reports, case files, presentations, and testimony using objective and legally defensible language.

6. Components Recommended for In-Person Delivery

·   Incident Management and Scene Safety: Command check-in, accountability, site safety assessment, PPE selection, atmospheric monitoring, hazard communication, stop-work decisions, and decontamination are best taught and evaluated in person.

·   Fire Dynamics and Pattern Application: Instructor-led demonstrations, ventilation and flow-path discussion, fire effects, suppression effects, limitations of pattern interpretation, and hypothesis testing should ordinarily include an in-person application component.

·   Building Systems, Utilities, and Electrical Examination: Recognition of utility hazards, electrical distribution, appliances, photovoltaic systems, batteries, energy-storage systems, generators, gas systems, and technical-assistance needs should include direct observation of components, props, or field conditions whenever practical.

·   Scene Documentation: Photography, photo logs, measurements, field sketches, diagrams, evidence markers, notes, and documentation before and after scene alteration should be demonstrated through instructor-observed practical work.

·   Evidence Handling: Recognition, collection, packaging, sealing, labeling, contamination control, chain of custody, storage, transfer, and laboratory coordination should be completed through hands-on practical work.

·   Scene Examination and Origin/Cause Analysis: Exterior and interior examination, debris-layer processing, reconstruction, area-of-origin analysis, hypothesis development, hypothesis testing, and conclusion language are strongly recommended for in-person delivery.

·   Interviews, Case Preparation, and Testimony: Role-play, witness coordination, case conferences, direct examination, cross-examination, limitations, and professional presentation benefit from live instructor and peer interaction and should ordinarily be conducted in person.

·   Final Integrated Practical: A comprehensive scene or case exercise requiring safe operations, documentation, evidence handling, analysis, report preparation, and oral presentation is strongly recommended for in-person delivery and direct instructor observation.

Session 1 - Course Orientation, SIU Mission, and Investigator Role

Learning objectives

·   Explain course expectations, completion standards, and the purpose of a joint Special Investigation Unit.

·   Differentiate fire-service, law-enforcement, public-sector, and private-sector investigative roles.

·   Identify professional conduct, confidentiality, documentation, and callout expectations.

·   Complete a baseline knowledge and professional-development self-assessment.

Recommended delivery and activities: Instructor-led lecture, interagency discussion, SIU mission exercise, baseline assessment.

Session 2 - Legal Foundations, Authority, Ethics, and Liaison

Learning objectives

·   Identify the source and limits of investigative authority.

·   Recognize when consent, continued administrative access, a warrant, or legal consultation may be required.

·   Describe liaison relationships with law enforcement, medical examiner/coroner, utilities, laboratories, insurers, prosecutors, and technical specialists.

·   Apply ethical and professional standards to information sharing and scene access.

Recommended delivery and activities: This module is suitable for in-person or live online delivery. Activities may include assigned reading, recorded instruction, discussion response, knowledge check, and a short legal/liaison scenario.

Session 3 - Incident Management and Scene Safety

Learning objectives

·   Check in through the incident management system and maintain accountability.

·   Conduct and document an initial and continuous site safety assessment.

·   Select appropriate PPE and recognize its limitations.

·   Use monitoring information to support entry, respiratory-protection, and stop-work decisions.

·   Apply decontamination and contaminated-equipment transport practices.

Recommended delivery and activities: Safety briefing, PPE/monitoring demonstration, hazard walk-through, stop-work scenario, decon practical.

Session 4 - Fire Dynamics and Construction Theory

Learning objectives

·   Explain combustion, heat transfer, fire growth, ventilation, and compartment fire development.

·   Describe how fuel packages and ventilation affect fire effects.

·   Identify major construction classifications and structural systems relevant to fire investigation.

·   Prepare for in-person fire-pattern and construction application.

Recommended delivery and activities: This theory-focused module may be delivered in person or live online. Activities may include modules, recorded demonstrations, reading, a fire-development worksheet, and a quiz.

Session 5 - Fire Dynamics, Patterns, and Construction Application

Learning objectives

·   Relate fire effects to ventilation, fuel, geometry, duration, suppression, and overhaul.

·   Recognize limitations of individual fire patterns.

·   Use multiple data sources rather than a single pattern to evaluate potential origin areas.

·   Identify construction-related hazards and fire-spread pathways.

Recommended delivery and activities: Instructor demonstrations, photograph sets, case exercise, construction props or site walk-through.

Session 6 - Documentation and Report Writing

Learning objectives

·   Organize contemporaneous notes, photo logs, diagrams, and case files.

·   Distinguish facts, observations, witness statements, analysis, and conclusions.

·   Use objective language and avoid unsupported certainty.

·   Draft a concise investigative narrative and identify missing documentation.

Recommended delivery and activities: This module may be delivered in person or live online. Activities may include recorded instruction, sample report critique, photo-log exercise, and a written narrative assignment.

Session 7 - Systems, Utilities, Electrical, Solar, and Stored Energy

Learning objectives

·   Recognize electrical service, distribution, branch circuits, appliances, and potential energized components.

·   Identify natural gas, LPG, water, sewer, generator, solar photovoltaic, battery, and energy-storage hazards.

·   Determine when utility or technical specialist assistance is required.

·   Document systems and components without exceeding training or authority.

Recommended delivery and activities: Component stations, utility tabletop, electrical recognition exercise, solar/ESS and generator scenarios.

Session 8 - Initial Investigative Actions and Witness Coordination

Learning objectives

·   Establish investigative priorities after arrival.

·   Coordinate scene security, ownership/control, access, and evidence preservation.

·   Identify witnesses and develop an interview sequence.

·   Create a preliminary investigative plan based on safety, legal authority, and available resources.

Recommended delivery and activities: Command check-in role-play, scene-control tabletop, witness map, investigative-plan worksheet.

Session 9 - Scene Documentation Practical

Learning objectives

·   Capture overall, midrange, and close-up photographs.

·   Maintain a complete photo log and cross-reference evidence markers.

·   Take measurements and prepare a field sketch and scene diagram.

·   Produce notes that allow another competent investigator to understand what was observed and changed.

Recommended delivery and activities: Hands-on documentation stations and graded field package.

Session 10 - Evidence Collection and Chain of Custody

Learning objectives

·   Develop an evidence-collection plan.

·   Select appropriate packaging and contamination controls.

·   Seal, label, document, transfer, and store evidence.

·   Maintain a complete chain of custody and identify laboratory submission needs.

Recommended delivery and activities: Evidence stations, packaging exercise, transfer simulation, chain-of-custody review.

Session 11 - Fire and Explosion Scene Examination

Learning objectives

·   Conduct systematic exterior and interior examinations.

·   Recognize fire effects, suppression effects, structural hazards, and potential evidence locations.

·   Process debris layers and document reconstruction or movement.

·   Integrate scene data with witness and incident information.

Recommended delivery and activities: Practical scene examination or comprehensive case simulation.

Session 12 - Area of Origin, Cause, and Hypothesis Testing

Learning objectives

·   Identify and evaluate potential areas of origin.

·   Develop multiple hypotheses that account for available data.

·   Test hypotheses against physical evidence, witness information, fire dynamics, and known limitations.

·   Use an undetermined conclusion when the available data do not support a specific cause.

Recommended delivery and activities: Hypothesis matrix, team case analysis, instructor challenge, written conclusion paragraph.

Session 13 - Case Preparation and Courtroom Testimony

Learning objectives

·   Organize a case for technical, supervisory, prosecutorial, or peer review.

·   Explain methods, findings, limitations, and opinions clearly.

·   Respond professionally during direct and cross-examination.

·   Avoid speculation and accurately distinguish facts from opinions.

Recommended delivery and activities: Case conference, exhibit review, mock testimony, instructor and peer feedback.

Session 14 - Integrated Final Practical

Learning objectives

·   Apply the complete investigative process safely and systematically.

·   Produce a defensible documentation and evidence package.

·   Develop and test origin and cause hypotheses.

·   Submit a written report and orally present findings and limitations.

Recommended delivery and activities: Integrated scene/case practical, written report, oral presentation, remediation plan if required.

Minimum final practical package

·   Documented command check-in, safety assessment, hazard controls, and accountability plan.

·   Complete notes, photo log, measurements, field sketch or diagram, and scene-examination record.

·   Evidence inventory, packaging documentation, transfer record, and chain-of-custody documentation.

·   Origin and cause hypothesis matrix identifying supporting, inconsistent, and unavailable data.

·   Written investigative report separating facts, observations, witness information, analysis, and conclusions.

·   Oral case presentation that explains methodology, findings, limitations, and recommended follow-up.

Critical failure conditions

·   Unsafe action or intentional disregard of a stop-work direction.

·   Loss, contamination, mislabeling, or undocumented transfer of evidence.

·   Unsupported cause opinion, fabricated data, or material misrepresentation.

·   Failure to maintain scene accountability or required legal/agency coordination.

1. Course Information

2. Course Description

The Fire Investigator Course is an invite-only hybrid training program developed to prepare selected fire and law enforcement personnel for future participation in a joint Special Investigation Unit. Students receive instruction and practical experience in investigator responsibilities and authority, scene safety, fire dynamics, building construction, building systems and utilities, electrical fire analysis, initial investigative actions, documentation, evidence collection and preservation, fire and explosion scene examination, area-of-origin determination, cause determination, report writing, case preparation, and courtroom testimony.

The course emphasizes a systematic and legally defensible investigative process. Students are expected to apply critical thinking, scene safety practices, objective documentation, evidence preservation, hypothesis development, hypothesis testing, interagency coordination, and professional communication.

3. Course Format and Workload

·   Fourteen structured sessions, with each session representing approximately four instructional hours. The host agency and instructor may designate individual sessions for in-person or live online delivery.

·   Recommended minimum in-person delivery: 10 sessions, totaling approximately 40 instructional hours.

·   Recommended maximum online delivery: four sessions, totaling no more than approximately 16 instructional hours. Online sessions may include live lecture, assigned reading, recorded material, discussion, quizzes, case analysis, and written work.

·   The exact delivery format for each session will be announced by the instructor. Practical, safety-critical, evidence-handling, scene-examination, and performance-evaluation activities should be scheduled in person whenever reasonably available.

·   Supplemental reading and preparation may be assigned outside the 56 structured instructional hours. Students should plan for additional time to complete reports, case exercises, and remediation assignments.

4. Required and Recommended Materials

·   Assigned Fire Investigator course textbook or electronic curriculum access.

·   Access to applicable agency policies, forms, scene-safety procedures, evidence procedures, and report-writing requirements.

·   Notebook or approved electronic note-taking device, writing instruments, and basic measurement tools as directed.

·   Camera or agency-approved imaging device when assigned.

·   Laptop or tablet capable of accessing the online learning platform and completing written assignments.

·   Agency-approved PPE for practical sessions, as directed by the instructor.

·   Respiratory protection only when authorized and when the student has completed required medical evaluation, fit testing, and training.

·   Recommended reference access: recognized fire investigation methodology and applicable professional-qualification requirements, as identified by the instructor.

5. Course Schedule and Assignment Sequence

6. Recommended Evaluation and Grading

Recommended completion standard: Minimum 80 percent overall, completion of all assigned coursework regardless of delivery format, and a passing determination on every critical safety, evidence, scene-examination, and final-practical component. The instructor may use pass/fail competency scoring instead of percentage scoring if required by the host agency or certifying authority.

7. Attendance, Participation, and Online Attendance Policy

·   Students are expected to attend every scheduled session, whether delivered in person or online, and to remain actively engaged for the full instructional period.

·   The delivery method does not reduce course expectations. Students must complete all assigned discussions, exercises, knowledge checks, practical activities, and evaluations.

·   A student who misses a practical or instructor-observed evaluation must complete an instructor-approved make-up or remediation assignment. Practical remediation should ordinarily be completed in person.

·   Students are expected to arrive or log in on time, remain for the full session, and participate in assigned team activities, discussions, exercises, and evaluations.

·   Assigned readings, quizzes, written work, and preparatory activities must be completed by the stated deadline and normally before the related practical or application session.

·   Failure to participate, failure to comply with online attendance requirements, or failure to complete assigned coursework is treated as an attendance and participation deficiency.

·   Repeated absence, failure to participate, unsafe conduct, or failure to meet professional expectations may result in removal from the course after coordination with the sponsoring agency.

Online Attendance Requirements

·         Students attending a class session online must have a functioning camera and keep the camera on for the entire instructional period, except during scheduled breaks or when specifically authorized by the instructor.

·         The camera must provide a clear, continuous view of the student sufficient for the instructor to verify attendance and participation.

·         Students must have a functioning microphone connected and available throughout class. Students shall unmute promptly when called upon, during discussion, and whenever directed by the instructor.

·         Online students are required to participate in class discussions, questions, polls, breakout activities, case reviews, and other interactive assignments to the same extent as students attending in person.

·         Students may not attend online while driving, performing unrelated work duties, or participating in activities that prevent full attention and engagement.

·         Camera, microphone, connection, or platform problems must be reported to the instructor immediately. Extended inability to maintain video, audio, or participation may be treated as an absence and may require make-up work.

·         Reasonable accommodations or temporary exceptions must be approved by the instructor or sponsoring agency in advance when practicable.

8. Safety Policy

·   Students shall follow the incident management system, instructor directions, host-agency safety procedures, and all site-specific controls.

·   Every student is responsible for identifying and communicating hazards and for stopping work when conditions exceed available training, equipment, authority, or controls.

·   No student may enter a hazardous environment, disturb debris, handle evidence, use tools, or operate monitoring or respiratory equipment without instructor authorization.

·   Practical exercises may be modified, delayed, relocated, or terminated based on weather, structural conditions, atmospheric hazards, staffing, equipment, or other safety concerns.

·   Horseplay, intentional bypass of safety controls, or disregard of instructor direction is grounds for immediate removal from the exercise and may be grounds for dismissal from the course.

9. Professional Conduct, Confidentiality, and Case Material

·   Students shall maintain professional conduct consistent with fire-service, law-enforcement, and public-agency expectations.

·   Course photographs, reports, witness information, case files, and scenarios shall be treated according to the instructor’s confidentiality instructions and applicable agency policy.

·   Actual case information may not be photographed, copied, distributed, posted, or discussed outside the course unless specifically authorized.

·   Students shall distinguish factual information from assumptions, hearsay, analysis, and opinions during discussion and written work.

·   Completion of the course does not authorize a student to represent themselves as a certified fire investigator unless separate certification requirements have been met.

10. Written Work and Report Standards

·   Written work shall be organized, legible, objective, and submitted in the format directed by the instructor.

·   Reports shall separate observations, witness statements, documentation, analysis, and conclusions.

·   Students shall not speculate or overstate findings. Appropriate language includes “based on available information,” “consistent with,” “unable to rule out,” and “requires further examination.”

·   Origin and cause opinions must identify the data relied upon, alternative hypotheses considered, and the basis for retaining or rejecting each hypothesis.

·   An undetermined finding is appropriate when the available data are insufficient to support a specific cause or when multiple hypotheses cannot be eliminated through valid testing.

·   Plagiarism, fabrication, intentional alteration of data, or misrepresentation of investigative findings is grounds for failure and referral to the sponsoring agency.

11. Use of Technology and Artificial Intelligence

·   Technology may be used for note organization, diagrams, research, writing assistance, and presentation preparation only as permitted by the instructor and agency policy.

·   Students remain responsible for the accuracy, completeness, confidentiality, and legal defensibility of all submitted work.

·   Confidential, criminal-justice, protected health, personally identifiable, or nonpublic case information shall not be entered into public or unapproved artificial-intelligence systems.

·   AI-generated conclusions may not replace independent scene examination, evidence analysis, hypothesis testing, or professional judgment.

·   The instructor may require disclosure of technology or AI assistance used in an assignment.

12. Make-Up, Remediation, and Reassessment

·   The instructor may assign remediation when a student does not meet a written or practical performance standard but can reasonably achieve competency within the course schedule.

·   Critical safety, evidence, chain-of-custody, scene-examination, and final-practical deficiencies must be corrected through direct instructor observation.

·   Make-up work is not guaranteed and is subject to instructor availability, scene or prop availability, and sponsoring-agency approval.

·   A student who cannot demonstrate required competency after remediation may receive an incomplete or unsuccessful course outcome.

13. Accessibility and Reasonable Accommodation

Students who require a reasonable accommodation should notify the instructor or sponsoring agency as early as possible. Accommodations should preserve essential safety and performance requirements while providing equitable access to instruction and evaluation.

14. Completion Requirements

·   Complete all scheduled sessions or approved make-up/remediation requirements.

·   Complete all assigned modules, readings, discussions, quizzes, written work, and practical activities regardless of delivery format.

·   Pass the required scene-safety practical.

·   Demonstrate satisfactory scene-documentation and evidence-handling competency.

·   Complete the origin/cause hypothesis exercise using a systematic process.

·   Complete the mock testimony or case-presentation requirement.

·   Pass the integrated final practical and submit the required written report.

·   Maintain professional conduct and comply with course safety and confidentiality requirements.

Administrative limitation: Successful completion documents completion of this local training program. Appointment to a Special Investigation Unit, callout eligibility, independent case authority, and certification status remain decisions of the participating agencies and applicable certifying authorities.

Incident Management and Accountability

Site Safety

Documentation

Evidence

Scene Examination

Origin and Cause Analysis

Case Presentation

I acknowledge that I have received or been given access to the Fire Investigator Course syllabus. I understand that this is an invite-only professional development course that may include both in-person and live online instruction. I understand the attendance, online participation, safety, confidentiality, conduct, evaluation, and completion requirements.

I further understand that course completion does not independently confer law-enforcement authority, fire-investigator certification, appointment to a Special Investigation Unit, or authorization to conduct investigations beyond the authority granted by my agency.

Fern Creek Fire & EMT Recruit Class 25-01

General information                           

Description

This course is designed to prepare Fire/EMT students with basic Firefighter I & II skills to perform at a competent level under the general direction of instructors and fire company commanders. This course will also have certifications for IFSAC Firefighter I & II, and Hazardous Materials Technicians. The curriculum will follow the “AAOS Emergency Care & Transportation if the Sick & Injured, 12^th edition, “Essentials of Firefighting 8”, “Kentucky Fire Commission IFSAC Skills Firefighter I & II and Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations”

Expectations and goals

Understand the roles and responsibilities of an Emergency Medical Technician and a Firefighter.

Become proficient as an Emergency Medical Technician and a Firefighter.

Obtain National Registry and State Emergency Medical Certifications.

Obtain certifications in IFSAC Firefighter I & II and Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations.

Obtain certifications as Hazardous Materials Technician.

Special Operations Awareness.

Course materials

Required materials

Fern Creek Fire and EMS will provide and use the following curriculum “AAOS Emergency Care & Transportation if the Sick & Injured, 12^th edition, “Essentials of Firefighting 8”, “Kentucky Fire Commission IFSAC Skills Firefighter I & II and Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations”

Optional materials

May be provided by specialty instructors.

Assessment

Emergency Medical Technician written exams and practical skills.

Firefighter chapter testing, knowledge, skills, and abilities, IFSAC skills

Practical skills assessments.

IFSAC testing conducted by the Kentucky Fire Commission Staff.

Introduction to the Fire Service & Firefighter Safety: After completing this lesson, the student shall be able to identify the mission of the fire service, describe how fire departments are organized, and understand various regulations that apply to firefighters; describe fire department SOPs, rules, and regulations that affect a Fire fighter ; explain ways that fire departments may interact with other organizations and agencies; explain the roles and duties of a Firefighters; describe fire and life safety initiatives aimed at reducing firefighter illnesses, injuries, and fatalities; describe the aspects of NFPA 1500 related to firefighter safety and health; summarize general guidelines for operating safely at structural fire scenes; summarize safe practices for riding in fire service vehicles and apparatus.

Communications: After completing this lesson, the student shall be able to describe the different types of communication that occur in the fire department; explain the procedures for receiving non-emergency calls; describe the types of communications systems and equipment used to receive and process emergency calls; explain the procedures for receiving and dispatching emergency calls; describe radio equipment and procedures used for internal fire department communications; handle emergency and non-emergency phone calls; use a portable radio for routine and emergency traffic.

Building Construction: After completing this lesson, the student shall be able to understand how building construction features and materials will contribute to fire spread as well as how heat affects structural components and materials; differentiate among types of building construction; describe the construction of floors, ceilings, and walls; explain how basements and stairs may impact firefighting operations; describe the construction and operation methods of different types of doors; describe the construction and operation methods of different types of windows.

Building Materials, Structural Collapse & Effects of Fire Suppression: After completing this lesson, the student shall be able to identify the effects of fire on building materials, describe structural collapse considerations, and explain the effects of fire suppression activities on building materials; explain considerations to be taken when establishing collapse zones; describe actions that should be taken when structural collapse is imminent; describe building conditions and fire suppression activities that can impact fire spread and structural stability.

Fire Dynamics: After completing this lesson, the student shall be able to explain the basic principles of fire science, describe the stages of fire development, and the reaction of building construction to fire; describe how thermal energy impacts fire behavior; explain the function of fuel within the combustion process; explain the function of oxygen within the combustion process; explain the self-sustained chemical reaction involved in flaming combustion.

Firefighter Personal Protective Equipment: After completing this lesson, the student shall be able to distinguish between types of personal protective clothing and equipment and explain how to safely use various types of protective clothing and equipment; describe the inspection, cleaning, and maintenance of PPE; describe conditions that require the use of respiratory protection equipment; identify SCBA components; describe the procedures for donning and doffing SCBA; describe methods of refilling, replacing, and storing SCBA cylinders; describe safety considerations for working in and exiting a hazardous atmosphere while wearing SCBA. Practical: Introduction to gear: coats, pants, helmet, gloves, hood, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Work with gear on; crawling, climbing, breathing on SCBA with mask, in non-air-conditioned areas. Gear weight is approximately 40-50 lbs.

Extinguishers: After completing this lesson, the student shall be able to recognize different classifications and types of portable fire extinguishers and select the appropriate fire extinguisher for the situation at hand.

Ropes & Knots: After completing this lesson, the student shall be able to describe various uses for life safety and utility rope and differentiate between types of knots. The student shall also be able to describe the procedures for cleaning, inspecting, and maintaining rope; identify types of knots; describe the procedure for hoisting various tools and equipment; explain how ropes and knots are used during rescues and in other emergencies.

Ground Ladders: After completing this lesson, the student shall be able to identify types of ladders and the parts of a ladder. They shall also describe safe practices for using, carrying, and placing a ground ladder. Students shall be able to describe methods for raising and lowering a ladder, working from a ladder, and assisting victims down a ladder; describe the process of cleaning, inspecting, and maintaining a ladder. Practical: Lifting, carrying, raising, and climbing ladders as a team. Outdoor activity. Ladders of different weights and sizes. 100’ climb of aerial apparatus.

Forcible Entry: After completing this lesson, the student shall be able to recognize different types of forcible entry tools and describe methods for forcing entry through doors, windows, and walls; explain considerations for forcible entry tool safety; explain how to carry forcible entry tools; describe how to clean and maintain forcible entry tools. Practical: Tools used for forcing a door. Prying and swinging forcible entry type tools.

Ventilation: After completing this lesson, the student shall be able to describe the purpose of ventilation and explain the process for ventilating flat or pitched roofs; describe safety considerations related to tactical ventilation; describe ventilation tools and equipment; describe considerations related to the ventilation of basements and other special compartments. Practical: Use a chainsaw to cut plywood on a roof simulator. Carrying or lifting a chainsaw to the roof of a three-story building. Climbing ladders.

Fire Hose: After completing this lesson, the student shall be able to describe the characteristics of hoses, and understand how to inspect, care for, and maintain fire hose. They should also be able to differentiate between different types of hose rolls and loads. Practical: Lifting, draining, rolling, and carrying of fire hose.

Hose Operations & Hose Streams: After completing this lesson, the student shall be able to describe water supply, methods used to deploy hose, and methods used to advance hose. Students shall also be able to explain how to operate types of hose lines, nozzles, and master stream devices. Practical: Flow water with hose lines as a team and individually.

Maintenance & Testing Responsibilities (with Forcible Entry & Fire Hose): After completing this lesson, the student shall be able to describe procedures for maintaining equipment and service testing fire hose. Practical: Lifting, moving, and carrying light generator and light stand. Rolling and carrying hose.

Structural Search & Rescue: After completing this lesson, the student shall be able to explain practices for firefighter survival during interior operations and describe search and rescue operations. Students shall also be able to describe MAYDAY protocols, evacuation, and rapid intervention operations; describe air-monitoring operations; describe rapid intervention crew equipment and duties. Practical: Crawling with 45 lbs. of gear on. Outdoor and inside (air-conditioned area) activity. Dragging of up to 200 lbs. with teammate and as an individual. Carrying and lifting manikins in gear. Gear on for all activities.

Fire Suppression: After completing this lesson, the student shall be able to explain fire suppression methods for structure fires, vehicle fires, exterior fires, and ground cover fires; Explain the science behind fire suppression; Explain the role of firefighters in supporting fire protection systems during fire suppression; Explain the duties of firefighters related to building utilities. Practical: Full gear with SCBA. Advance hose lines flowing water. Extinguish vehicle fires.

Overhaul, Property Conservation & Scene Preservation: After completing this lesson, the student shall be able to describe firefighters’ roles during overhaul, salvage, and scene preservation; Describe the duties that firefighters must perform to protect and preserve a fire scene. Practical: Lifting and folding tarps, removal of drywall with tool overhead in gear.

Technical Rescue Support & Vehicle Extrication Operations: After completing this lesson, the student shall be able to describe different types of rescue situations, the hazards involved in those situations, and the firefighter’s responsibility in vehicle extrication and rescue incidents; identify tools used at technical rescues; identify vehicle construction methods and components; describe vehicle stabilization operations; describe techniques used to access victims at a vehicle extrication incident. Practical: Outdoor activity. Full gear. Lifting a tool up to 60 lbs. Working with tools to open and remove parts of cars.

Foam Fire Fighting, Liquid Fires & Gas Fires: After completing this lesson, the student shall be able to describe firefighting foam production and operations. They will also be able to describe operations involving liquid and gas fuel fires.

Incident Scene Operations: After completing this lesson, the student shall be able to describe the process for initiating incident operations and transferring Command. Students will also be able to explain how unit operations are coordinated and how post-incident reports are used.

Fire Origin & Cause Determination: After completing this lesson, the student shall be able to describe the roles and responsibilities of firefighters and fire investigators regarding fire origin and cause determination, and evidence preservation.

Fire Prevention/Community Risk Reduction: After completing this lesson, the student shall be able to explain the importance of fire and life safety programs, fire and life safety surveys, fire and life safety presentations, and pre-incident planning.

Electrical Emergencies: Class on electrical hazards associated with dealing with high voltage wires and how to deal with emergencies associated with the first responder.

Wildland & Ground Fires: After students complete this chapter and the related course work, they will know the various methods of combating wildland fires, as well as the tools and personal protective equipment (PPE) needed to safely operate at the scene of such incidents. They will learn how to suppress a ground fire and deploy a fire shelter.

Fire Suppression & Auto Fires (Fire Control): After students complete this chapter and the related course work, they will be able to distinguish between offensive and defensive strategies, and they will understand the special considerations for fires in large buildings, basements, concealed spaces, above ground level, lumberyards, energized equipment, and flammable gases and liquids. Students will also have the skills to operate hose lines; use fire streams; conduct indirect, direct, and combination fire attacks, operate master stream devices; and extinguish vehicle fires.

NFPA states that vehicle fires are one of the most common fires in the United States. With the advent of airbags, side impact protection, hybrids, and other alternative fueled vehicles, these “common” fires have become anything but routine. Fire recruits learn both basic and advanced skills to mitigate these common, yet highly hazardous and potentially deadly events.  Skills such as forcible entry, hose and nozzle streams, and fire control are reinforced while students learn to safely extinguish a passenger vehicle fire emergency using live fire training.

E.M.S.: emergency medical care performance capabilities to include infection control, CPR, bleeding control, and shock management.

Report Writing: Focuses on proper reports for state and local levels. Also helps students learn how to be more effective in relaying information using the pen and their thoughts.

Emergency Control of Natural Gas/Natural Gas burn: Studies the hazards of natural gas, explosive ranges, and properties of same. Also explores the dos and don’ts of dealing with natural gas.  Focuses on firefighting duties of first-in engine company to a scene.  Consists of classrooms and of natural gas live fire training.

Flammable Liquids & Foam: This class deals with the chemistry of foam for fire suppression. Topics include concentrated foams, mixing, eductors, limitations, understanding fog nozzles, aspirating nozzles, and foam tubes. Includes hands-on live fire training field exercise.

Liquified Propane Gas: Focuses on useful handling of hazardous materials incidents involving flammable gases. Students will learn about tank construction, the properties of liquid propane gas, proper tactics for dealing with liquid propane gas, and will receive live fire training with liquid propane gas on site. Consists of live fire training.

Hazardous Materials Awareness & Operations: Recognition and identification of hazardous materials, labeling, placarding, scene control, and use of D.O.T. Response book.

High Rise: Covers construction, fireground management, tactical considerations, elevators, life safety, ventilation, and water supply.

Structure burns: Live fire training evolutions. Class incorporates all skills taught for firefighting: suppression, safety, rescue, ICS, hose handling, PPV, water supply, etc. All hands-on live fire training.  Full gear with SCBA. Extinguish fires in the burn building. Climbing ladders, moving hose lines, flowing water, crawling, and building searches.

Fire Detection, Protection & Suppression Systems: After students complete this chapter and the related course work, they will be able to describe the components and functions of a fire alarm and the basic types of fire alarm initiation devices. Students will also be able to identify various sprinkler heads and indicating valves. They will also be able to describe and identify automatic sprinkler systems, standpipe systems, and specialized extinguishing systems.

Fire Ground Survival: The purpose of the Fire Ground Survival program is to ensure that training for Mayday prevention operations is consistent between all firefighters, company officers, and chief officers. Firefighters must be trained to perform potentially life-saving actions if they become lost, disoriented, injured, low on air, or trapped. These training exercises must be consistent throughout the fire service. Practical: Crawling, climbing, and searching through the building.

Incident Command System: This class combines command strategy with organizational procedures and is designed to be used for structural firefighting incidents and other related emergency incidents. It is also used for other types of emergency incidents.

NIMS: National Incident Management System class: ICS 100, 200 & 700. This is a self-study requirement.

Commonly used Acronyms in EMS/Fire Operations:

BLS- Basic Life Support

ALS- Advanced Life Support

CPR- Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

AED- Automatic External Defibrillator

BVM- Bag Valve Mask

MCI- Mass Casualty Incident

IFSTA- International Fire Service Training Association

IFSAC- International Fire Service Accreditation Congress

SFRT- State Fire Rescue Training

ICS- Incident Command System

PAR- Personal Accountability Report

PPV- Positive Pressure Ventilation

LDH- Large Diameter Hose

TIC- Thermal Imaging Camera

IDLH- Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health

PPM- Parts Per Million

NIMS- National Incident Management System

PPE- Personal Protective Equipment

SCBA- Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus

RIT- Rapid Intervention Team

MVA- Motor Vehicle Accident

Course schedule

EMT Classes will be held every Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays from February 3 thru April 7, 2025, 0800-1400

Exam Schedule EMT test highlighted in Blue, Firefighters Red

FWFD Fire Officer 1 Course 

The courses will open on January 8, 2024, with all skills due by February 9, 2024.  Written IDHS testing will be completed on-duty February 12, 13, 14.

Course description and prerequisites are as follows:  

This course will provide entry level fire officers knowledge and skills to meet the min. requirements in NFPA 1021

Full Description:

This course is designed to give entry level fire officers the knowledge and skills to meet the minimum job performance requirements as outlined in and based on NFPA 1021: Standard for Fire Officer Professional Qualifications. The course identifies the requirements necessary to perform the duties of a first line supervisor or a supervisor who oversees a single fire company or station, with information and skills required for success. This course introduces the student to the basic concepts of management and supervision by concentration on such topics as Organizational Structure, Communication Skills, Human Resource Management, Community and Government Relations, Administration, Inspections and Investigations, Emergency Service Delivery, along with Health and Safety.

IDHS Prerequisites Fire Officer I:

•           Must have be an ACTIVE Instructor 1

•           Fire Officer Strategy & Tactics

Overview

This is a thirty-five day course. The course prepares the student to become certified as a Fire Instructor I.

The fee for the course is $0 (GTFD covered cost of required text).

Course Prerequisites

Firefighter 2 for one year prior to application date.

Outcome Objectives

After completing the course, the student will have met the sections required for a Fire Instructor I in the NFPA 1041, 2018 edition, Standard for Fire Service Instructor Professional Qualifications. Students who successfully complete the certification process will be certified as a Fire Instructor I.

Text

The required text for the course is IFSTA’s Fire and Emergency Services Instructor, Ninth edition.

While not required, the Fire and Emergency Services Instructor Exam Prep is a valuable tool to help prepare for each lesson in the course and for the certification exam.

Course Evaluation Strategy

The course will be evaluated by Rick Schnautz (Skills) and Courtney Farrand (Written Exam).

Homework Assignment

Open book quizzes are due according to the schedule set.

Pre-Course Reading Assignment

Reading is the responsibility of the student. In class will review material based from the reading material, students will need to be prepared prior to their arrival to make the classroom interactive.

Required Materials

Textbook, notebook, pencil or pen, highlighter, computer or tablet for exam.

Instructor Information

Contact information for the instructor will be provided at the first class session. The goal of the instructor is to help you be successful during the course. You should immediately contact the instructor if you have any questions about the course or course work.

Academic Dishonesty Policy

Academic misconduct includes cheating, plagiarism, falsification of records, unauthorized possession of examinations, intimidation, and any and all other actions that may improperly affect the evaluation of a student’s academic performance or achievement; assisting others in any such act; or attempts to engage in such acts. Any incident of academic misconduct will result in the student being dropped from the course and the student’s sponsoring agency being notified of the incident.

Course Participation

The course utilizes lecture, open discussions, and skills practice to achieve the learning objectives. Every student is expected to:

·       come to course prepared to actively participate in discussions,

·       read the text prior to the next class session,

·       complete all homework assignments,

·       respect the beliefs, opinions, and values of other students,

·       and have an open mind about the issues being discussed.

Harris County ESD 12 is providing employees with the required training that meets the NFPA 1002 and Chapter 7 of Texas Fire Commission for the Driver Operator- Pumper Certification. This course is a hybrid version and will be monitored closely by the Instructor and assistants. 

Students are expected to read each chapter, complete the chapter quiz, and review each chapter PPT, before scheduled in-person sessions.

In-person sessions will consist of a written exam and skills practice. All students must attend all in-person sessions for successful completion of the course. There will not be "make-up' days.