This Sunday morning, the Vista Fire Department held a Firefighter Skills Class along with a driver training session for members working toward qualification as Apparatus Drivers on Utility 256.

The “Firefighter Skills Class” focused on forcible entry procedures and techniques used to gain access during a fire, including door entry using a forcible entry prop and the safe use of various tools in a controlled environment. Forcible entry is the act of gaining access into a building through a door, window, or wall when normal entry is not possible, and it is a critical skill because firefighters frequently respond to emergencies where occupants cannot exit on their own — rapid access can make the difference in saving lives and limiting fire spread. Practicing these techniques allows members to build confidence, operate efficiently under pressure, and perform safely while protecting both victims and firefighters. We would also like to thank the Pound Ridge Fire Department for generously allowing us to utilize their forcible entry prop for this training. This training not only equips our firefighters with the foundational knowledge needed for success in the Firefighter I program, but also helps those who have already completed Firefighter I to maintain and refine their skills.

The Driver Training program is how Vista Fire Department personnel are trained and cleared to operate Fire and EMS apparatus. Members complete several hours of "drive time" behind the wheel of each vehicle before being approved as drivers. The training includes an equipment overview of all apparatus and instruction on operating the pump panel for the fire engines. The program begins with members learning to operate Utility 256, followed by the ambulances, Engine 142, Engine 141, and Tanker 4.

For more information on how to become a member, call (914)-533-2727, email us at Info@VistaFD.org, visit https://www.vistafd.org/content/become/, or apply online here: https://www.vistafd.org/apply.