Orleans/Niagara BOCES is adding a new Fire Science element to the EMS (Emergency Medical Services) program at the Niagara Career and Technical Education Center this school year.
Fire Science/EMT Teacher Rodney Hogg has gotten approval from New York State to now offer this new portion of the two-year program which will see juniors in the program learn about careers in fire prevention, firefighting tactics and emergency response. “ Students participate in learning events covering firefighter safety, health and fitness, personal protective equipment (PPE), self-contained breathing apparatus inspection and cylinder changing, fire department communications, building construction and fire behavior, modern fire control research, portable fire extinguishers, rope and knot tying, ground ladders, forcible entry, tactical ventilation theory, water supply, hose and fire streams, loss control, orientation to fire origin and cause determination, fire prevention and life safety initiatives, confined space awareness, overview of first aid and buddy care, and Hazardous Materials First Responder Operations,” says Mr. Hogg. “The student will receive Basic Exterior Firefighting Operations (BEFO) course certification equivalency.”
Senior year will prepare students to perform lifesaving skills and to gain hands-on experience and real-world medical training that prepares them for careers in emergency services, healthcare and public safety. The EMS program focuses on the skills and knowledge required for basic certification in the EMS field. Students will be learning how to provide immediate lifesaving care to critical patients who access the EMS system. Students can become certified as Certified First Responders (CFR) and as Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT). They will also have the opportunity to get certifications and be trained in CPR/AED, HIPAA, Bloodborne and Airborne Pathogens, Sexual Harassment in the Workplace, Hazardous Materials Awareness, and the Incident Command System.
Mr. Hogg says he wants to thank the Niagara County fire companies that are helping the class with the supplies of gear, equipment and manpower on skill days to help make the program a success.