MASON CITY – Three recruits have successfully completed training to be Mason City’s newest firefighters, it was announced this week.
According to City Hall and the firefighters’ union:
The Mason City Fire Department is thrilled to announce the successful completion of training by our newest class of recruits: Katrina Cornick, Jon Laurin, and Emily Carolan. After six weeks of rigorous instruction and hands-on experience, they have proved to us that they have what it takes to be called a Mason City Firefighter.
During their training, Katrina, Jon, and Emily completed a comprehensive curriculum covering essential aspects of firefighting and emergency response. They received thorough instruction on fire ground safety protocols, ensuring they are equipped to navigate challenging environments with safety and efficiency. Additionally, they were trained in the proper utilization of personal protective equipment, understanding its critical role in safeguarding both themselves and those they serve.
All the fundamental aspects of firefighting, including fire dynamics, building construction, hose streams and hose handling techniques were trained on extensively, providing our recruits with a foundation of knowledge on how fires behave and how to fight them. The training regimen also encompassed essential skills such as search and rescue operations, vehicle extrication, rope handling, and responding to hazardous materials calls. All this training prepares our recruit class to operate effectively at MCFD, but it was just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to learning in the fire service.
Undoubtedly, the highlight of their training was the live burn exercise held at NIACC’s regional fire training facility. This critical training allows our recruits to experience the intense heat, smoke, and physically stressful conditions of a structure fire. Training with live fire in this manner allows them to apply their newfound knowledge and skills in a controlled yet realistic environment.
As they complete this first step on their journey, we can officially call them family. We commend them for their hard work, determination, and commitment to upholding the highest standards of firefighting excellence. Please join us in congratulating Katrina Cornick, Jon Laurin, Emily Carolan, and wishing them a safe and successful career ahead!
(PHOTO of Katrina Cornick, Jon Laurin, and Emily Carolan via City Hall.)
