McDowell Fire, Rescue and EMS College helps train hundreds

Last weekend, the 45th annual McDowell Fire, Rescue and EMS College attracted hundreds of participants from all over western North Carolina and beyond as they spent four days in McDowell County learning the best practices in their respective fields. The annual college taught them life-saving rescue techniques, both on land and in the water, as well as fire suppression and emergency medical response. The largest number of classes and participants attended the college on Saturday, March 18, and Sunday, March 19, although for the first time ever, one seven-day class started on Monday, March 13, for fire inspectors, with additional classes in other areas starting on Thursday, March 16. Almost all classes were held on the campus at McDowell Technical Community College, with additional classes offered at Nebo, Marion, Glenwood, Sugar Hill fire departments, as well as McDowell Rescue Squad. For hands-on elements, some classes moved to other sites throughout McDowell County to complete their training. As in past years, live burns and Basic Engine Company classes were offered at the Fire Training Grounds in Marion, off of Old Highway 10 West, using a specialized “burn building,” as well as large propane tanks and flammable liquids pit. The Fire, Rescue and EMS College is co-sponsored by MTCC and the McDowell County Fire and Rescue Training Committee, with assistance from the McDowell County Emergency Management Agency, the McDowell County Fire Commission, local fire departments and the McDowell County Rescue Association.