Members of the Reedsville, Terra Alta and Fellowsville volunteer fire departments completed the Firefighter II course, offered through the state Department of Education. While it’s not required training for volunteers, it is recommended. The course builds upon the basics taught in the 120-hour Firefighter I course, required for all volunteer firefighters in West Virginia.
Instructor Bernard Moyer, a professional firefighter in Grafton, said the course is typically taught over a few nights and weekends, or whatever works best for the agencies involved. Covered topics include communications, safety, public fire education, sprinkler systems and auto extrication, among others.
Years ago, volunteers were able to grab a hose and go, but Moyer said fighting fires requires more specialized skills in today’s world.
“People do lose their lives, and we have had firefighters here in West Virginia die in the line of duty,” Moyer said. “That’s why training, I think, is important — trying our best to prevent that from happening. We want everybody to go home safely at the end of the situation.”
Brittany Shearer, a volunteer with the Reedsville VFD, said the class was special to her.
“I see a big decrease in members at volunteer fire departments. The training is long and hard, and it seems no one has the time or desire to be a fire department member anymore. The need for volunteers in this county is great and literally could be a life-or-death matter,” Shearer said in an email, adding that those interested in volunteering should contact their local volunteer fire department.
Terra Alta Assistant Chief Russell Gibson participated in the most recent Firefighter II course, which was offered in Terra Alta, though he’s taken it twice previously. He said Moyer is part of what makes the course special.
“He is, in my opinion, one of the best instructors they have. He’s been there, he’s seen it all,” Gibson said, adding that Moyer is always willing to devote extra time to students as needed.
Moyer, 70, said he’s been training firefighters since 1969. He’s taught 589 classes since 2000 and had 4,891 students.
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