Two Danvers Recruits Graduate from State Firefighting Academy

Danvers firefighters Stephen D. DeRoche and John W. Mendalka III recently graduated from the Department of Fire Services’ Massachusetts Firefighting Academy.

The two firefighters, who were part of the 209th class of the academy, and the rest of the class took part in the 45-day Career Recruit Firefighters Training Program.

“This rigorous professional training provides our newest firefighters with the basic skills to perform their jobs effectively and safely,” said State Fire Marshal Stephen D. Coan.

There were 22 graduates from 11 departments.

“Today’s firefighters do far more than fight fires. They are the first ones called to respond to chemical and environmental emergencies ranging from the suspected presence of carbon monoxide to a gas leak. They may be called to rescue a child who has fallen through the ice or who has locked himself in a bathroom. They rescue people from stalled elevators and those who are trapped in vehicle crashes. They test and maintain their equipment, ranging from self-contained breathing apparatus to hydrants to hoses, power tools, and apparatus," said the state Department of Fire Services.

“At the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy they learn all these skills and more from certified fire instructors who are also experienced firefighters. Students learn all the basic skills they need to respond to fires and to contain and control them. They are also given training in public fire education, hazardous material incident mitigation, flammable liquids, stress management, confined space rescue techniques, and rappelling. The intensive, 9-week program for municipal firefighters involves classroom instruction, physical fitness training, firefighter skills training and live firefighting practice.”