Vermont Fire Academy

Welcome to the Vermont Fire Academy Home Page

The Vermont Fire Academy is based in Pittsford, VT with a primary focus of delivering training to responders throughout the state.  This website is used to distribute timely course information and is updated on a continual basis, so please check back frequently and feel free to contact us with any questions you have. 

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UPCOMING Pumping Apparatus Driver/Operator

Location: Bristol Fire Department
Orientation Date: Monday, February 18, 2019
Registration Deadline: 1600 on February 4, 2019
Time: Weeknight class time: 1800 - 2200 ; Weekend class time: 0800 - 1700

               ****Tentative Program Schedule****

Attendance at every class meeting is mandatory for successful completion of this program.

This program presents general principles of pump operation, along with the application of those principles wherever feasible. Guides driver/operators in the proper operation and care of apparatus. Overview of the qualities and skills needed by a driver/operator, safe driving techniques, types of pumping apparatus, positioning apparatus to maximize efficiency and water supply, fire pump theory and operation, hydraulic calculations, water supply considerations, relay pumping principles, water shuttle procedures, foam system operation, and apparatus maintenance and testing.  addresses the pumper operator skills needed to move water from a pressurized hydrant or static source to the fireground. Rural water supply techniques, concepts dealing with static water sources and moving the water to the fireground by pumper relay or tanker shuttle are presented and hands-on job skills are practiced. Large diameter hose equipment and techniques are discussed and included in practical activities.

Although Emergency Vehicle Driver Training is a required component of this program, driving skills will have to be validated by the Chief or designated Training Officer of your home fire department in order to complete this program.

• PADO Module 1: Emergency Vehicle Operations and the Operator (19 hours): Includes Emergency Vehicle Driver Training, National Traffic Incident Management, and Basic Fireground Functions.

• PADO Module 2: Fire Streams and Hydraulics (15 hours)

• PADO Module 3: Fire Pump Positioning, Theory, and Operating (15 hours)

• PADO Module 4: Water Supply Practices (12 hours)

Prerequisites: Students must be a minimum of 18 years of age, be affiliated with a fire department, and possess a valid driver's license. 

To register, download the General Admission Application, fill it out and return it to the Vermont Fire Academy along with a copy of your valid driver's license by the registration deadline. Priority will go to Vermont Firefighters. The class minimum is 5 students and the class maximum is 12 students.

Apparatus Requirements: Students will be required to bring pumping apparatus from their home department for practical exercises. This must be arranged with your Chief of Department prior to enrolling in the program. 

The Vermont Fire Academy is Hiring

The Vermont Fire Academy is seeking qualified, experienced, and motivated individuals for the following part-time positions.  If you have a desire  work within the fire service and and share your knowledge and experience with others, then we would like to hear from you.   Click on the links below for more information on each position. 

Fire Instructor

Fire Service Training Specialist I - Curriculum Development