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Rensselaer County - Public Safety, 99 Troy Road/Suite 309, East Greenbush, NY (2026)

08/06/2026

🚒 NEW FIRE & EMERGENCY SERVICES TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES NOW AVAILABLE! 🚒

The Rensselaer County Bureau of Public Safety is excited to announce several additional New York State outreach courses that have been added to this fall's training schedule! Whether you're looking to continue your Firefighter II progression, expand your hazardous materials knowledge, or sharpen specialized skills, there's something for everyone.

🔥 Firefighter II Series
• Module 1 – Crew Leadership (September)
Build leadership skills for the fireground, including standpipe operations, incident command, coordinated fire attack, and post-incident reporting.

• Module 2 – Risk Reduction (October)
Learn emergency planning, community risk reduction, pre-incident planning, fire safety surveys, and public education techniques.

• Module 3 – Foam & Flammable Gas (October)
Gain hands-on experience with foam operations, ignitable liquid fires, and flammable gas emergencies.

• Module 4 – IMAT (November)
Develop skills in fire investigation support, equipment maintenance, evidence documentation, and assisting with technical rescue operations.

☣️ Hazardous Materials Technician
• Module 4 – Advanced Skills (October)
Learn advanced containment and mitigation techniques including plugging, patching, overpacking, chlorine emergency kits, and damaged container management.

• Module 5 – Specialty Skills (November)
Complete the HazMat Technician curriculum with advanced transfer operations, HazMat RIT procedures, venting, flaring, v***r suppression, and other specialty skills required for technician certification.

🧯 Introduction to Class B Foam
Offered at Averill Park (10/20), South Schodack (10/21), and Melrose (10/22). This hands-on course introduces firefighters to the proper selection, application, and use of Class B foam for flammable and combustible liquid incidents.

🛡️ Terrorism Indicators & Suspicious Activity Reporting
This important awareness course helps Fire and EMS personnel recognize suspicious activities, improve situational awareness, and understand how to properly report information that could prevent future criminal or terrorist acts.

All courses are offered through the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services and require registration through the NYS DHSES Learning Management System (LMS). Most courses require a Training Authorization Letter (TAL), and several have prerequisite training requirements.

📅 Seats are limited and registration is now open. Don't wait—take advantage of these outstanding training opportunities to continue building your skills and strengthening emergency response across Rensselaer County!

07/31/2026

🌧️ Flood Recovery: Protect Yourself, Your Family & Your Home

As our community continues to recover from the recent flooding, it's important to remember that the dangers don't end when the water recedes. Floodwater can contain sewage, chemicals, bacteria, and other contaminants that pose serious health risks.

If your home or basement was flooded, follow these important safety tips:

🧤 Protect Yourself

Wear waterproof gloves, rubber boots, eye protection, and an N95 mask when cleaning up.
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water after handling flood-damaged items and before eating or drinking.

🏠 Dry Your Home Quickly

Mold and bacteria can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours. Open windows and doors when possible, use fans, and begin drying your home immediately. The sooner you dry everything out, the better.

🗑️ Throw Away Water-Damaged Items
Unfortunately, some items cannot be safely saved if they were soaked by floodwater. Consider discarding:

Carpet, padding, and rugs
Drywall, insulation, and ceiling tiles
Papers and books
Upholstered furniture and mattresses
Other porous materials that cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried

🧼 Clean and Disinfect

First, wash hard surfaces with soap and water.
Then disinfect using a solution of 1 cup of unscented household bleach mixed with 5 gallons of water.
Never mix bleach with ammonia or other household cleaners, as this can create dangerous toxic fumes. Always follow the instructions on cleaning products.

💧 Protect Your Drinking Water
If your private well was flooded, do not use the water for drinking or cooking until it has been properly disinfected and tested. If you suspect chemical contamination, stop using the well and contact your local health department.

⚠️ Watch for Hidden Hazards
If you're removing walls, flooring, or ceilings in an older home, be aware that disturbing older materials may release lead dust or asbestos. If you're unsure, seek guidance before beginning demolition.

Your safety is the top priority. If the damage is extensive, or if mold covers a large area, consider hiring a qualified restoration professional.

Stay safe, take your time, and don't hesitate to ask for help if a cleanup task is beyond what you can safely handle.

07/30/2026

Did your home or business sustain damage during the July 28–29 heavy rain and flash flooding event?

Rensselaer County is asking residents and businesses to report storm-related damage by completing the New York State damage assessment form. The information collected will help State and County officials evaluate the overall impact of the storm and determine whether federal disaster assistance may be available.

Please note: This is not an application for financial assistance or relief programs. It is a damage reporting tool used to support potential requests for federal aid.

Complete the form here: https://on.ny.gov/3xLeNbY

Please share this post to help ensure everyone affected has the opportunity to report their damage.

07/22/2026

🚒 NYS OFPC Outreach Training – Rapid Intervention Crew (RIC)

Registration is now open for the Rapid Intervention Crew (RIC) course at the Rensselaer County Emergency Services Training Complex.

This advanced, hands-on course is designed for experienced interior firefighters and focuses on the skills needed to locate, disentangle, and remove a downed firefighter during a mayday or urgent situation. Based on NFPA 1407, the course emphasizes teamwork, rapid decision-making, and realistic rescue scenarios with minimal classroom time.

Course Information

📍 Emergency Services Training Complex
25 Macha Lane
Wynantskill, NY 12198

Training Dates
• October 13
• October 20
• October 27
• November 3
• November 7
• November 10

Class Begins: 6:30 PM

Prerequisites
• Firefighter I (or equivalent)
• Firefighter Self Rescue
• Truck Company Operations
• Training Authorization Letter

Seats Available: 20

Registration is open through October 7, 2026.

Register online at: https://lmsportal-dhses.ny.gov

This course is an outstanding opportunity to build advanced rescue skills and prepare to serve as an effective member of a Rapid Intervention Crew. If you meet the prerequisites, don't wait—seating is limited.

07/22/2026

🚒 NYS OFPC Outreach Training – Truck Company Operations

Registration is now open for Truck Company Operations, hosted by Brunswick No. 1 Fire Department.

This 24-hour course is designed to provide firefighters with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to safely and effectively perform truck company operations. Training includes:

• Ground ladder operations
• Forcible entry
• Ventilation
• Search operations
• Specialized truck company tools
• Building construction
• Truck company duties and responsibilities

Course Information
📍 Brunswick No. 1 Fire Department
566 Hoosick Road
Troy, NY 12180

Training Dates
August 31
September 9, 14, 21, 26
October 3

🕡 Class Begins: 6:30 PM

Prerequisites
• Firefighter I (or equivalent)
• Training Authorization Letter
• Current medical clearance for SCBA use

Seats Available: 20

Registration is open through August 24, 2026.

Register online at: https://lmsportal-dhses.ny.gov

Don't wait—seating is limited, and this course is an excellent opportunity to strengthen your truck company knowledge and operational skills.

07/21/2026

💧🚒 Master the Art of Moving Water. Master the Fireground. 🚒💧

A reliable water supply can make the difference between a successful fire attack and a lost battle. If you're an experienced pump operator looking to take your skills to the next level, the NYS OFPC Water Supply Operations course is for you.

This advanced program focuses on the strategies and techniques needed to establish, manage, and sustain water supplies for fireground operations, giving firefighters the knowledge to handle everything from rural water shuttle operations to complex hydrant systems.

📍 Location: Petersburgh Fire Department
19213 NY Route 22
Petersburgh, NY 12138

📅 Class Dates:
October 1, 8, 15, 22
November 1, 5 & 14, 2026

🕖 Time: 7:00 PM

🎯 30 Seats Available

Prerequisites:
✔️ Training Authorization Letter
✔️ BEFO (formerly Scene Support Operations) or equivalent
✔️ Apparatus Operator – Pump

📅 Registration: August 1 – September 30, 2026

📝 Register through the NYS DHSES Learning Management System:
https://lmsportal-dhses.ny.gov

Questions? Contact Instructor Ron Stark at [email protected].

Whether your department operates in a rural setting with long tanker shuttles or an urban environment with extensive hydrant systems, this course will strengthen your ability to ensure a dependable water supply when it matters most.

💪 Water wins fires. Build the skills to keep it flowing.

07/21/2026

🚒 Drive With Confidence. Respond With Purpose. 🚒

NYS OFPC Apparatus Operator – Emergency Vehicle Operations Course (EVOC) is coming to West Sand Lake Fire Department!

Operating an emergency vehicle is one of the greatest responsibilities in the fire service. This course is designed to help firefighters become safer, smarter, and more confident apparatus operators while meeting the objectives of NFPA 1002, Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator, Chapter 2.

During this course you'll learn:
🚒 Emergency vehicle operations and driving principles
⚖️ Legal and moral responsibilities of apparatus operators
⚠️ Risk management and decision-making behind the wheel
🛑 Preventing crashes, injuries, and financial loss
✅ Best practices for safe emergency response

📍 Location: West Sand Lake Fire Department
3697 NY Route 43, West Sand Lake, NY 12196

📅 Class Dates:
September 14, 21, 23, 28, 30 & October 3, 2026

🕖 Time: 7:00 PM

🎯 Only 20 seats available!

Prerequisites:
✔️ Valid Driver's License
✔️ Training Authorization Letter

📅 Registration is open now through September 7, 2026.

📝 Register through the NYS DHSES Learning Management System:
https://lmsportal-dhses.ny.gov

Questions? Contact Instructor Chris Racine at [email protected].

Whether you're preparing to become a new apparatus operator or refreshing your emergency driving skills, this course delivers the knowledge and mindset needed to operate safely, protect your crew, and serve your community with professionalism.

Train safe. Drive smart. Everyone goes home.

07/21/2026

🚒 Ready to Take the Next Step as a Pump Operator? 🚒

The NYS OFPC Apparatus Operator – Pump Course is coming to West Sand Lake Fire Department, and registration opens August 1st!

This hands-on course is designed for firefighters who want to develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to safely and effectively operate fire apparatus pumps. Training includes:

💧 Fire pump operations
🚒 Hydraulics & friction loss calculations
🔥 Fire streams and pump controls
🌊 Pumping from draft
🚰 Hydrant operations
🛠️ Live pump evolutions and practical exercises

📍 Location: West Sand Lake Fire Department
3697 NY Route 43, West Sand Lake, NY

📅 Class Dates:
October 12, 14, 19, 21, 24, 26 & 28, 2026
🕖 Time: 7:00 PM

🎯 30 seats available

Prerequisites: BEFO (formerly Scene Support Operations) or equivalent, plus a Training Authorization Letter.

This course is based on NFPA Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator objectives and is an outstanding opportunity for firefighters preparing to become apparatus operators or looking to sharpen their pump operations skills.

📝 Registration: August 1 – October 1, 2026
Register through the NYS DHSES Learning Management System: https://lmsportal-dhses.ny.gov

Questions? Contact Instructor Chris Racine at [email protected].

Don't wait—these classes often fill quickly. If you're ready to become a more confident and capable pump operator, reserve your seat!

07/21/2026

🚨 FIREFIGHTER SELF-RESCUE TRAINING — REGISTER NOW! 🚨

When conditions deteriorate and seconds matter, every interior firefighter must know how to recognize danger, call a MAYDAY, and get themselves or their crew to safety.

This intensive, hands-on course includes:

Fireground disorientation and entrapment awareness
MAYDAY procedures
Horizontal and vertical self-rescue techniques
Emergency egress while operating in SCBA
Practical evolutions based on NFPA 1407

📅 Dates: August 4, 6, and 8, 2026
⏰ Start Time: 6:30 p.m.
📍 Emergency Services Training Complex
25 Macha Lane, Wynantskill
👨‍🚒 Instructor: Nick Higgins
💺 Limited to 30 students

Prerequisites: Firefighter I or equivalent, Training Authorization Letter, current SCBA medical clearance and fit test, and the physical ability to operate in SCBA.

Registration is open through August 3. Secure your seat through the DHSES LMS Portal:

🔗 https://lmsportal-dhses.ny.gov

06/30/2026

⚠️ EXTREME HEAT EMERGENCY INFORMATION – RENSSELAER COUNTY ⚠️

Rensselaer County continues to experience dangerous heat and humidity, with heat index values expected to exceed 100°F in many areas. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can quickly become life-threatening, especially for older adults, young children, individuals with chronic medical conditions, and those without access to air conditioning.

🌡️ Please take the following precautions to stay safe:

• Stay indoors in air-conditioned environments whenever possible.
• Drink plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty.
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day (typically 11 AM – 6 PM).
• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Never leave children, adults, or pets unattended in vehicles.
• Check on elderly family members, neighbors, and anyone who may be vulnerable to heat-related illness.
• If you work outdoors, take frequent breaks in shaded or cooled areas.

🚨 Know the signs of heat-related emergencies:

☀️ Heat Exhaustion:
• Heavy sweating
• Weakness or dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Headache
• Cool, pale, or clammy skin

➡️ Move to a cool location, loosen clothing, sip water, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.

🚑 Heat Stroke (MEDICAL EMERGENCY – CALL 911):
• Body temperature above 103°F
• Hot, red, dry, or damp skin
• Confusion or altered mental status
• Loss of consciousness
• Seizures

➡️ Call 911 immediately. Heat stroke can be fatal if not treated promptly.

🏢 Cooling Centers remain available throughout Rensselaer County, including libraries, senior centers, and other public facilities with varying hours of operation. Residents are encouraged to contact their local facility directly to confirm operating hours before traveling.

📍 Additionally, the City of Rensselaer has announced that the North End Fire Station, located at 2 St. Francis Place, Rensselaer, will be open as a cooling center beginning Wednesday at 7:00 AM and will remain open continuously through Friday at 7:00 PM.

Please continue to monitor local weather forecasts, limit unnecessary outdoor exposure, and take steps to protect yourself, your family, and your neighbors during this period of extreme heat.

Stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay safe.

Rensselaer County - Public Safety

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