Philosophy
WPVFD uses a team approach to training with an emphasis on positive and confidence building methods. Everyone in the department from our junior members to the chief are considered students and are part of a continual learning program with individualized learning plans.
Method and Delivery
Practice nights are predominantly training oriented and culminate in periodic simulated scenarios. During a training practice, not all skills are expected to be considered. For example, a practice about hose lays does not include accountability tags. During training orientated practices we will also work in manageable learning groups for practical lessons to ensure everyone receives vital hands on experience. Ten students per practical session is about the upper manageable limit but will often be less.
A scenario practice is the culmination of related lesson plans. For a scenario type practice, members will be expected to operate as though it was a real call. This would include accountability tags, radio communication and incident command among other skills. The 2015 training plan is for a full scenario practice approximately every two months.
Training Budget
Exterior Operations certification is the initial training goal for all members. Training is being performed in-house with accreditation from external organizations such as the Justice Institute of BC.
For 2015, the department has funds to enroll about half of the members in an external training course with an emphasis on Justice Institute certification in Fire Fighter Level 1 and 2, Basic, Training Officer, and Auto-ex.
The First Responder program is a very valuable component and is delivered in house. Certification is recognized by the province.
Other training funds are allocated to training seminars, live fire practices and external trainers who come to our practice night.
Training Organization 2014/15
Training Officer : Captain Art Wynans
Lead Trainer for First Responder : Captain Kathy Crawley & Lieutenant Cathy Patchell
Lead Trainer for new recruits and probational members : Deputy Chief Darren Pine