Union County Fire Department Launches New Firefighter Recruit Class

The Union County Fire Department has begun a new firefighter recruit class aimed at training volunteers to meet state and national standards for interior firefighting.

According to Union County Fire and Rescue, Recruit Class 108 officially started Jan. 8 and is made up of Support Firefighters from volunteer stations across the county who are working to advance to the role of Suppression Firefighter.

A recruit class is a formal Suppression Firefighter program that meets the requirements of Georgia Firefighter Standards and Training (GFSTC) and National Professional Qualifications (NPQ) Firefighter I certification. While many volunteers begin at the Basic Support Firefighter level, those who want to operate inside burning buildings must complete the recruit class and pass both written and practical state exams.

Support Firefighters typically handle tasks such as operating fire trucks, pulling hose, assisting on medical calls and providing other critical on-scene support. The recruit class prepares volunteers for more advanced responsibilities through a combination of classroom instruction and physically demanding hands-on training.

Training topics include fire behavior, personal protective equipment, ropes and knots, ladders, firefighter survival techniques, medical response and fire control. Recruits also practice real-world scenarios designed to simulate emergency fire scenes.

During the first weeks of the program, students completed orientation and were introduced to fire science fundamentals, turnout gear and self-contained breathing apparatus. Over the coming months, the class will focus on fire hoses, fire streams and suppression techniques. The program is scheduled to conclude in May.

Fire officials say the class requires a significant commitment, with extensive reading, studying and repeated skills practice outside of scheduled class time. Instructors emphasize repetition, using the motto “Do it again” to reinforce the importance of muscle memory and proficiency.

Union County Fire and Rescue praised the recruits for their dedication and willingness to complete the demanding training.

“We are proud of the recruits and their commitment to the service,” the department said in a statement.

Union County Fire Department’s motto is “Our Family Protecting Your Family.”