Fire Ops Continues to Be Effective Tool for IAFF Locals

U.S. Representative Jim Himes (D-CT) coming out of the flashover simulator

October 19, 2009 – As the economy shows signs of improvement, Stamford, CT Local 786 conducted its annual Fire Ops 101 as a reminder of how crucial fire department resources are to public safety.

“We continue to do this event because of the support it generates from our decision-makers and because it helps strengthen labor-management relations,” says Local 786 President Brendan Keatley. Stamford Fire Chief Robert McGrath backs the program each year.

This year, Local 786 began its Fire Ops with a PowerPoint presentation, followed by three evolutions: a flashover simulator, a HazMat demonstration and an auto extrication exercise.

Participating were U.S. Representative Jim Himes (D-CT), State Senator Andrew McDonald, State Representatives Gerald Fox, Jim Shapiro and Bill Tong, several incumbent local leaders and mayoral candidates Michael Pavia and David Martin.

In an electronic newsletter produced by his office, Representative Himes discussed his experience in the flashover simulator. “I simply can't describe the feeling of being in superheated close smoky darkness with tongues of flame ‘flashbacking’ over your head,” he wrote.

Himes added, “It gave me an up-close and personal appreciation for the incredible work our first responders do, and the risks they take as a matter of course. It made me recommit myself to the work I do on the Committee on Homeland Security.”