Shrewsbury Firefighters Graduate From MA Fire Academy

SHREWSBURY, MA — Shrewsbury firefighters were among the 33 graduates in the latest graduating class at the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy. The Shrewsbury grads were part of the third class to graduate during the pandemic.

There were graduates from 24 different fire departments spanning the Commonwealth.
“First responders are on the front lines protecting their communities and these new firefighters are needed more now than ever.” MFA Director David Evans said, “This rigorous professional training provides our newest firefighters with the basic skills to perform their jobs effectively and safely.”

At the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy, students learn from certified fire instructors who are also experienced firefighters. Students learn all the basic skills they need to respond to, contain and control fires. They receive training in public fire education, hazardous material incident mitigation, flammable liquids, stress management, confined space rescue techniques and rappelling.

The intensive, ten-week program for municipal firefighters involves classroom instruction, physical fitness training, firefighter skills training and live firefighting practice.

Upon successful completion of the Recruit Program all students have met national standards of National Fire Protection Association 1001 and are certified to the level of Firefighter I and II, and Hazardous Materials First Responder Operational Level by the Massachusetts Fire Training Council, which is accredited by the National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications.