It was a special evening for a group of Barrhead firefighters.
During May 23’s Barrhead town council meeting, a class of 10 firefighters received their badges for successfully completing their National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1001 certification course.
Barrhead fire chief John Whittaker said the certification means that Barrhead firefighters are trained to the same level as professional firefighters.
“This is a really big deal. These guys dedicated weekends, evenings and every Tuesday night for the better part of a full year to achieve this standard,” he said.
Deputy fire chief Gary Hove added the NFPA 1001 course encompasses a number of different courses all of which have to be successfully completed before receiving their certification.
In the past, Barrhead firefighters who received their 1001 certification had to do it by attending classes and seminars on a part-time basis at an institution such as Lakeland, or NorQuest College. However, this year the department decided to do the training in house.
“It’s just more efficient for our members to be able to do everything here,” Hove said, adding it is something we plan to continue to do. “In fact, we have another group taking their 1001 now.”
Hove along with Capt. Ted Amos served as the main instructors, while Whittaker was the course evaluator.
For most of the firefighters 1001 training began in February 2016 and by late September they had completed the bulk of the course.
Mayor Gerry St. Pierre congratulated the members for their achievement.
“Thank you so much on behalf of the residents of the town and county of Barrhead for your commitment in not only your training, but to protect ourselves as residents and our properties,” he said. “And when we think of the inherent risk you all take in doing that … thank you all so much.”
Whittaker concluded the ceremony, saying most firefighters wear their badge on the left hand side of their uniform and this is because it is closer to the heart.
“It also distinguishes the fact that this is an accomplishment. Some people will try, but never receive this certification. All these fine folks have done it and we are all very proud of them.”
