Training Program

The Oskaloosa Fire Department training program is a comprehensive, aggressive program dedicated to training its employees in the fundamentals of firefighting, fire prevention safety, inspection and investigative procedures. The training program is based on the National Fire Protection Association Standard 1001, “Firefighter Professional Qualifications, 1974.” Standard 1001 specifies in terms of performance objectives the minimum requirement of professional competencies required for service as a firefighter. The program is designed to meet the behavioral objectives set forth in the level of Firefighter I, II, inspector and investigator.

The Fire Chief is in charge of the training program. Shift captains, or their designee, are responsible for training the personnel under their command, and are accountable to the Fire Chief for the same.

Both fulltime and reserve members of the Oskaloosa Fire Department continue to develop better skills and techniques through training. The fulltime staff works hand-in-hand with reserve members to enhance training in all areas of their duties. Each captain, or his designee, files a daily log of training held on their respective days on duty.

The department has expanded training to establish a better understanding of conducting fire safety inspections. When time allows members go into the community to conduct inspections of businesses. The department has a goal to expand this activity to residential properties. The department has many opportunities to see residential properties that are in need of upgrading. Without a residential inspection program, substandard housing will become a very serious problem. It is hoped that in the near future more members of the department will become certified as inspectors through the Iowa State Fire Marshall's Office.

Another area of training is in public relations. The department has always known how important it is to get the message of fire safety to school age children. The department is currently expanding the program to include adult groups and organizations.

In the past the department has asked for donations for public education materials through the National Fire Safety Council. This organization sent letters to local business leaders asking for donations. Recently departmental personnel took this project upon themselves, hoping to generate enough funds to purchase more and better materials for fire safety education through the National Fire Safety Council.