09/03/2026
🔥 BDFD RECRUIT ACADEMY: DAYS 1–3 🔥
The newest members of the Beaver Dam Fire Department have completed their first three days of Recruit Academy!
Day 1 focused on administrative requirements, department orientation, expectations, policies, and procedures. This provided recruits with a better understanding of our organization and the standards expected of every member.
Day 2 was dedicated to personal protective equipment (PPE) and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Recruits practiced donning their gear, operating while wearing full PPE and SCBA, and completing drills designed to place them in uncomfortable and challenging situations. These exercises help build confidence, improve air management, and prepare recruits to remain calm while working in demanding environments. The day concluded with classroom instruction on fire behavior.
Day 3 introduced recruits to the department’s hoselines and equipment. Training included deploying hoselines, advancing charged lines, and practicing the hose-management techniques necessary to operate safely and effectively as part of an engine company. Recruits also observed a controlled burn, allowing them to see fire development and fire behavior firsthand while reinforcing the concepts discussed during the previous day’s classroom instruction.
The first three days established a strong foundation of department knowledge, firefighter safety, confidence, teamwork, and fundamental firefighting skills. There is still plenty of work ahead, but our recruits are off to a great start!