Schools

15 Firefighters Graduate Firefighting Program

Firefighters received 188 hours of training in learning how to operate at emergencies.

Fifteen firefighter cadets graduated from Chester County’s Firefighter I
Training Program on May 17, earning National and State Firefighting Certifications.
Fifteen firefighter cadets graduated from Chester County’s Firefighter I Training Program on May 17, earning National and State Firefighting Certifications. (Rebecca Brain)

SOUTH COATESVILLE, PA — Fifteen firefighter cadets graduated Wednesday from Chester County’s Department of Emergency Services Firefighter I Training Program.

The graduates are from East Brandywine, First West Chester, Glenmoore, Goshen, Honey Brook, Modena, Sadsburyville, Twin Valley, Valley Forge, and West Grove fire companies.

Bill Messerschmidt, director of the Chester County Department of Emergency Services said, “These cadets put in the hours and work to learn how to operate safely and effectively at the scene of an emergency and, in the process, developed a sense of teamwork, self-discipline, respect, and duty.

Find out what's happening in West Chesterfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

“Having 15 additional firefighters serving Chester County, Montgomery County, and the region at a time when staffing, recruitment, and retention are so challenging is something that our department, their families, and the community are proud of. Congratulations to them all.”

The 188-hour Firefighter I Training Program started in February and included classroom hours and hands-on practical training taken over 19 weeknights and ten weekends.

Find out what's happening in West Chesterfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Classes were held at the Public Safety Training Campus located in South Coatesville.

Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.