April 14th Training with mutual aid companies

On Sunday, April 14th the Esopus Fire Department and five mutual aid fire companies had the opportunity to complete a full day of training exercises at Scenic Hudson’s Black Creek Preserve river front property (formerly known as Winding Brook Acres) in the Town of Esopus. Firefighters from Esopus, Highland, Port Ewen, Rifton, Saint Remy and Spring Lake were able to complete training on skills including search & rescue, ladder operations, ventilation, hose line advancement and FAST (Firefighter Assistance and Search Team) operations. Approximately 70 firefighters were able to participate in the training. EMS coverage and rehabilitation services were provided by the Town of Esopus Volunteer Ambulance Squad.
Esopus Fire Chief William Freer said, “Training opportunities like this do not come along very often and we are happy to be able to partner with both Scenic Hudson and our mutual aid companies to make this happen. Firefighters were able to learn and practice skills that will help them save lives and keep themselves safe.”
Rita Shaheen, Scenic Hudson’s Director of Parks and Community Engagement said, “Scenic Hudson is happy to partner with the Town of Esopus Fire Department on making our property available for the one-day training opportunity for six local fire departments. We commend the Esopus Fire Dept. for their excellent planning and to all the firefighters and EMS volunteers for their important work.”