For drill this past Wednesday night (May 3, 2023), the firefighters of Co 1 and Co 3 teamed up to practice more advanced nozzle techniques and rapid fire attack drills while getting our pump operators some time on the panel.

While most residential structure fires are managed with 1 or 2 medium attack lines, fire conditions occasionally require the deployment of large caliber 2 1/2″ lines. Even less frequently, the opportunity presents itself for the first arriving engine to make use of the engine-mounted deck gun.

Using either of those tools requires close (and rapid) coordination between the firefighters on the rig, with little room for errors. Everyone must know their job and be prepared to act quickly. It is an advanced technique that requires practice and repetition.

After training like Wednesday night, our firefighters are capable of delivering over 500 gallons of water per minute into a fire less than 30 seconds after the rig comes to a stop.

This just adds another tool to the toolbox of options our firefighters can reach for in protecting the residents of Mahwah.

Check out some of our recent drills…

Drill Night: Hydrant Assists

By Josh Chase

Posted in Events and Happenings

For this week’s drill, members of Fire Rescue Company 1 refreshed their skills on hydrant assists and portable hydrant evolutions. Hydrant assist operations are utilized when there is insufficient water pressure being received by the initial engine (pumper) being supplied by a fire hydrant. This can be rectified by placing another pumper on the hydrant and boosting pressure in the supply line that is feeding the initial pumper. Additionally, crews practiced deploying our portable hydrant, which allows multiple supply lines to be established from a single supply line. Both of these water supply techniques were recently employed at a large mutual aid fire, highlighting the importance of maintaining proficiency with these fireground operations. Consistent training ensures our members remain prepared to support extended firefighting operations both within Mahwah Township and throughout our mutual aid region.

Department Drill

By Josh Chase

Posted in Events and Happenings

Last evening, Fire Companies 1, 2, 3, and 4 conducted a joint training drill at an acquired structure within the Township. Firefighters practiced multiple search and rescue techniques including Vent-Enter-Search (VES) operations through second-floor windows, primary search patterns, and victim removal from various locations throughout the structure. These realistic evolutions allowed members to sharpen their skills and work on challenges they would face during operations. Training opportunities in structures scheduled for demolition are invaluable, as they provide our members with real-world environments that cannot be replicated with traditional training props. We would like to thank the property owner for allowing us to utilize this building for training purposes. Job well done by all members who participated in this valuable training evolution.

Joint Drill

By Josh Chase

Posted in Events and Happenings

This past Wednesday evening, Mahwah Fire held a department drill at an acquired structure within the Township. Firefighters practiced multiple realistic scenarios including advancing hose lines, fire attack operations, victim search and rescue, and rescuing a downed firefighter. The acquired structure provided an invaluable opportunity for our members to practice our skills in a real-world environment rather than traditional training props. This multi-company drill also allowed firefighters from across the department to train together, strengthening our coordination and teamwork. We would like to thank the property owner for allowing us to utilize this structure for training purposes. Job well done by all members who participated in this valuable training evolution.

Drill Night: engine company ops

By Josh Chase

Posted in Events and Happenings

A little rain doesn’t stop us from responding to emergencies, so it won’t stop us from training! For this week’s drill we worked on engine company ops. Our junior and probationary firefighters worked on hose line advancementwhile the more experienced members worked with master streams and practiced pump operations. These fundamental skills remain critical to our operations regardless of weather conditions. After drill, we enjoyed a meal that was graciously donated by one of Mahwah’s newest businesses, Stella Nails and Spa. We welcome you to the Township and sincerely appreciate your generous donation. @stellanailsnspa Photos/videos may not be used or reproduced for any reason without express permission.

Cub Scout Visit

By Josh Chase

Posted in Events and Happenings

Yesterday evening, Fire Rescue Company 1 had the privilege of hosting Cub Scout Troop 258 at our firehouse for a tour and demonstration. The scouts were given an overview of our apparatus and specialized rescue equipment followed by a vehicle extrication demonstration. Our firefighters showcased various techniques and tools used during these technical rescues. These educational opportunities allow us to connect with our community’s youth while providing valuable fire safety information. Co.1 would like to thank Troop 258 for their interest in the fire service and paying us a visit.

Drill Night: Pump Ops

By Josh Chase

Posted in Events and Happenings

For our weekly drill, Co.1 Firefighters continued to work on stretching and operating hose lines. In addition, our senior driver reviewed basic pump operations with some of our younger members as they start their journey to become qualified pump operators.