2023 ANNUAL REPORT-FINAL

57

EMERGENCY SERVICES

Training Office (continued)

Recruit Academy

For the second time in its history, the Frederick County Division of Fire and Rescue Services ran three recruit academy classes simultaneously. On January 30, 2023, Recruit Classes 33 and 34 began the academy with 28 recruits in each and graduated 47 Probationary Firefighter/EMT’s on August 11, 2023. On April 24, 2023, Recruit Class 35 began the academy with 34 recruits and graduated 28 Probationary Firefighter/EMT’s on November 2, 2023. The hiring process required each candidate to apply, pass a written test, successfully complete a physical agility test (CPAT), undergo a complete physical and psychological evaluation, and complete a comprehensive background investigation. The 28-week academy is structured to ensure each recruit is trained in the various facets of fire, rescue and EMS delivery, in addition to a structured and rigorous physical training program. The Academy consists of CPR, Firefighter I, Hazardous Materials Operations, Rescue Technician Site Operations and Vehicle, Machinery and Equipment, Firefighter Survival and Rescue, Arson Detection for the First Responder, National Registry Emergency Medical Technician, Emergency Vehicle Operator, Truck Company Fireground Operations, and Firefighter II. Each recruit completes nearly 1,000 hours of training prior to graduation.

In the summer of 2023, a month-long application process was started to develop an eligibility list for future hiring. This yielded approximately 600 applicants and will be used to hire new recruits for Recruit Classes 36 and 37 that are slated to begin on February 12, 2024.