Firefighters train putting out propane-fueled emergencies
—Photo by JULIE GOLDER Firefighters edge their way to a simulated propane leak, spraying a fog of water and wind to stand of fire during a training exercise hosted by Paradise Valley Fire Department.
Paradise Valley Fire District recently hosted a propane emergency training class.
Fire departments joining Paradise Valley came from Bonners Ferry, Sandpoint, North Bench and South Boundary.
The state of Idaho provided funds through the Idaho Professional Technical Education program.
“The state covers half of the cost of the instructors and all of the cost of books,” said Paradise Valley Fire Chief Jock Johnson.
Propane emergency instructors were Jim Hitch from Moscow and Larry Simmers from Hauser Lake.
The propane and tank were provided by City Services, a company that provides propane to customers from Coeur d’ Alene to north of the Canadian border and is based in Montana.
The propane emergency class trained responders how to protect public while staying safe when such an emergency arises.
“It is good overall training and I am willing to give up my weekend to be here when the other departments can,” Hitch said.