Firefighters from the Valley Regional Fire Authority, as well as units from outside jurisdictions, took part in ladder truck operations training on the grounds at VRFA Fire Station 35 this week.

Two separate one-week courses were set aside for firefighters to learn skills on elevated structures. The classes drew 52 firefighters, about half of whom came from the VRFA. Teams were taught vertical ventilation training for commercial and residential occupancy, forcible entry techniques and rapid intervention (firefighting rescue) skills.

For the VRFA, the specialized training is preparation for the arrival of a Rosenbauer/Metz 105-foot Raptor ladder truck. The new unit, scheduled to go into service later this year, was a voter-approved purchase from a capital funding projects measure passed in February 2008.

The training has gone well, according to Paul Strong, VRFA training captain.

“We’re constantly trying to hone our skills,” he said.

The VRFA turned to Firetown, a well-respected West Coast training company with regional instructors, to conduct the classes.