Photos courtesy of Violet Township Fire Department
As 2015 continues to gain momentum, I realize that I am on the verge of completing 28 years of service with the Violet Township Fire Department.
I graduated from Pickerington High School in 1985. Back then, there was only one Pickerington High School. I knew in my heart that I wanted to be a career firefighter-paramedic, but my family was convinced that I should go to college.
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In those dark and desolate pre-Internet days, I was unaware of any institutions that offered a bachelor’s degree in fire science. So, like many uninformed and all-knowing 18 year olds, off to college I went, studying criminal justice. I was fortunate enough to spend two education-filled years at Bowling Green State University. I learned a lot about people and life. I discovered my parents had been right about many things. I also realized I was not getting any closer to my dream of becoming a career firefighter-paramedic.
In the spring of 1987, convinced that I was sick of attending school, I ended my collegiate career at BGSU and became a volunteer member of the Violet Township Fire Department. Although many of the courses I took in college failed to fully capture my attention, my interests were fully activated during my initial fire and EMS studies. Since 1989, I have enjoyed the opportunity and privilege of becoming a career member of the VTFD. Each step, each promotion and each experience has been bolstered by education.
Today, the Fire and EMS professions are demanding. Those seeking to become EMT-paramedics are required to complete approximately 70 credit hours of course work. Upon obtaining their certifications, the EMT-Ps must continually acquire 86 continuing education hours over the course of a three-year recertification cycle. These hours are broken down to include specific training in pediatrics, geriatrics, cardiac emergencies and trauma.
To become a full-time professional firefighter in the state of Ohio, one must complete a Firefighter II (FF II) course of no less than 240 hours. Upon obtaining their FF II certification, firefighters must complete 54 continuing education hours over the course of a three-year recertification cycle.
These certifications are entry points in the fire and EMS professions. Each organization or department has standards, principles, protocols and competencies that each member must master in an effort to retain proficiency. Many department members go on to obtain advanced or specialized training in areas such as rescue technician, HazMat, fire investigation, Fire/EMS instruction and fire/safety inspection.
Each new truck and every new piece of equipment requires updated and additional training for department members. Science, technology and advancements in tactics continually enhance how patient care and fire suppression is carried out.
Throughout the country, the fire and EMS professions are emphasizing higher education. Many agencies require associate degrees in order to be eligible for promotional exams. Some larger entities require candidates to have a bachelor’s degree as a prerequisite for Battalion Chief and a master’s degree as a requirement to become Chief.
Ironically for me, from the time that I took my initial oath as a volunteer firefighter, I have never stopped going to school. Over the years, I have realized the importance of education and the part it has played in my career. The Fire and EMS service of today is much more than Johnny and Roy of Emergency fame. Education has become and will continue to be an integral aspect for all fire and EMS members. The Violet Township Fire Department encourages members to attend conferences and seminars and attain college degrees. Our goal is to provide the best service possible with the most educated individuals.
