Firefighters training at the Carson City Fire Training Center yesterday sported an unusual word on their protective equipment: “Bombero.” That was because, as part of an international training program among Free Spirit USA, the Nevada State Fire Marshal, and Truckee Meadows Community College, these firefighters were from Chile.
Chile, unlike the U.S., has an entirely volunteer firefighting force, and these 20 firefighters brought to Nevada for training will be returning to their country to teach others what they learned.
“Continued training is vital for all firefighters, and we are very excited to partner with TMCC in presenting this educational fire training program,” said Nevada State Fire Marshal Chief Bart Chambers. “Working in collaboration with local and other fire agencies, we look forward to sharing knowledge and tools with the Chilean Fire Commanders and their firefighters.”
In addition to being trained on various firefighting equipment and techniques the four-day classes also focus on teamwork and creating the proper mindset for combating fires.
This class is the first to come to the Silver State, but there are plans are to host more South American firefighters in the future.
