Fire Service Women of New York State Set 2012 Training Weekend

The 11th annual Fire Service Women of New York State (FSWNYS) Training Weekend will be held September 14-16, 2012, at the New York State Academy of Fire Science in Montour Falls, N.Y. The program of hands-on and classroom courses, along with social activities, is designed for women who are members of career or volunteer fire departments. The majority of the attendees are from New York state, but participation by female firefighters nationwide is encouraged and many other states and Canada have been represented yearly.

"This is a unique and affordable opportunity for women in the fire service to enjoy serious training with their peers, share mutual interests and experiences, and get to know one another," said Mary Wrobel, president of FSWNYS. "The curriculum and social networking events change annually so the women will always find something fresh and new. And of course, catching up with ‘old’ friends is a great part of the experience."

Five of this year’s offerings earn training credit from the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control (OFPC) upon successful completion of the course, including a course examination, if applicable. They are: "Firefighter Assist & Rescue Tactics (FAST)," "Basic Structural Collapse Operations," "Trench Awareness," "Alternative Fueled Vehicles," and "Vehicle Technology and School Bus Rescue."

Additional hands-on training include "Self-Defense/Defensive Tactics," "Bra Fitting/Breast Cancer Awareness," and "Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) Familiarization." An "Honor Guard Techniques" workshop will be held in response to requests.

A private tour and wine tasting at Faulkerson Winery on Seneca Lake on Friday night has been arranged for those who are interested. On Saturday night, "Buffalo Music Award" winner Dee Adams, who writes and sings punchy, poetic, acoustic guitar driven songs drenched in hooks and harmonies, will perform after the exciting live and silent auctions. A mammoth scavenger hunt throughout the academy and its grounds is also in the social mix this year.

The cost for the weekend, including the registration fee and academy lodging and meals, ranges from $105-$136, depending upon the day/time of arrival. Click here for the entire weekend registration package including details on the specifics of costs, course schedule and descriptions, training prerequisite requirements, required forms, and other pertinent information about the weekend. The application deadline is August 20.