Four volunteer members of the Cinnaminson Fire Department successfully passed formal training courses and obtained their statewide certifications.
Firefighters Matthew Geiger and Lee Schroeder and Fire Code Official Tracy Kilmer recently completed almost 50 hours of training and passed the state-recognized examination, which included written and practical components, and earned the certification of Emergency Medical Responder. This certification is valid for a two-year period. During the two years, these individuals will be required to attend formal training sessions presented by the department, be independently evaluated each year by the department’s medical director and then successfully pass a 40-hour training program to recertify.
While all three stated that the course was challenging, they also said that they look forward to being able to provide basic first aid to residents in need. These members will be teamed up with members of the department who are EMTs to respond to critical emergency medical calls including heart attacks, trouble breathing, bleeding and overdoses. All three can perform CPR, use an automated external defibrillator, and administer aspirin, narcan and epinephrine.
Another volunteer member, Bob Nikoo, recently completed over 90 hours of classroom and practical instruction in the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety’s initial Fire Safety Inspector course. In addition, Nikoo passed a rigorous state-administered written examination to earn certification as a Fire Inspector. This qualifies him to enforce the very complex state fire safety codes. This certification is valid for a three-year period during which time Nikoo will need to complete more then 20 hours of state-approved continuing education training in order to recertify.
“Pound for pound, members of the Cinnaminson Fire Department are among the most highly-trained emergency services providers available,” Fire Chief William Kramer, Jr. said.
Those interested in joining the Cinnaminson Fire Department are encouraged to apply by visiting www.cinnaminsonfire.org.
