Around town training this week for firefighters with La Follette Fire Dept.

Russell Tower was one of the stops where LFD’s “A” Shift trained on Monday after 2pm

The Lafollette Fire Department “A” Shift is comprised of, left to right, Captain Johnny Seal, Firefighters Sam Finley, Jacob Wagner, Josh Miracle, Jason Seiber, Tim Frazer, Lieutenant Jeff Fugate and Training Instructor Joey Gilbert. 

By Charlie Hutson

LAFOLLETTE, TN (WLAF) – If you’re out and about today and Wednesday and you happen to see the Lafollette Fire Department ladder truck and other fire trucks at Russell Tower, don’t panic. Odds are it’s part of a firefighter training course.

“It’s a full eight-hour training session each day,” said La Follette Fire Chief Jimmy Pack.

LFD Training Instructor Joey Gilbert explains how new commercial buildings are required to have an FDC (fire department connections) and have it properly marked.

Monday, LFD Shift “A” was involved in Positioning Apparatus training. This training helps instruct the vehicle operators where the equipment needs to be once on scene. Training is valuable for commercial building fire, residential fires and even vehicle fires, according to LFD Training Instructor Joey Gilbert this  

Firefighters Josh Miracle, Jacob Wagner, Jason Seiber and Lieutenant Jeff Fugate listen as Training Instructor Joey Gilbert talks about Positioning Apparatus Training in front of Russell Tower.

“This training is helpful for both rookies and experienced firefighters, and training is a major part of keeping your department ready for all types of situations,” Captain Johnny Seal said.

LFD Training Instructor Joey Gilbert is explaining the FDC (fire department connection) at Russell Tower and its function.

The “A” Shift trained on Monday. The “B” Shift’s turn is today. On Wednesday is when the “C” Shift trains. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 04/16/2024-6AM)