Garland, TX – This week, I had the opportunity to participate in the Garland Fire Department’s Citizen Fire Academy, which provides residents with valuable hands-on training and insights into fire safety.
The excitement in the room during last night’s session was palpable as participants gathered to learn essential firefighting techniques, including the proper use of fire extinguishers. One of the highlights of the evening was the hands-on training with fire extinguishers. I managed to put out a simulated fire in 6.6 seconds, only to be bested by a fellow participant who achieved a record time of 6.5 seconds! It’s moments like these that highlight the importance of being prepared and quick to respond in emergencies. As I reflected on my experience, I realized that the adrenaline and focus of the training could be crucial in real-life situations where every second counts.
Fire Extinguisher PASS Method
- Pull the Pin: Remove the safety pin from the extinguisher to break the tamper seal.
- Aim: Point the nozzle at the base of the fire, not the flames.
- Squeeze: Press the lever slowly and evenly to release the extinguishing agent.
- Sweep: Move the nozzle from side to side across the base of the fire until it appears to be out.
The Garland Fire Department has an impressive demonstration kit that includes a portable screen to simulate fires, allowing participants to practice their techniques effectively. This hands-on approach gives the community confidence in an emergency and reinforces the importance of knowing how to use a fire extinguisher. Most fire extinguishers need to be replaced every ten years to ensure they are in good working condition. The extinguishers will often have an expiration date on them for more specific guidance.
After our extinguisher training, we moved to the training yard, where we learned how to properly don our face masks and connect them to air tanks. It was a bit nerve-wracking, especially hearing about the dangers of mishandling compressed air tanks. One wrong move, and a dropped air tank could become a high-speed projectile, posing an incredibly dangerous threat. Despite some initial hiccups, including a few loud squeals from improperly connected tanks, everyone eventually got the hang of it and learned some helpful tips along the way.
One fascinating aspect of the training was understanding how fire behaves in a structure. We were taught that smoke can actually be fuel for a fire and that firefighters often face challenges with smoke billowing out of open doors, complicating their entry. To demonstrate the behavior of smoke, we witnessed a fire demonstration on a dollhouse, which effectively illustrated how fire behaves in certain conditions. Much to my own kid’s relief, no toys were harmed during this lesson. When I showed them the fiery dollhouse, I was immediately met with gasps and concern about the toys and their decorations.
Garland Fire Department’s Safety Fest
As a reminder, the Fire Department’s Safety Fest is taking place tomorrow, Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Fire Administration. This is a fantastic opportunity for families to learn more about fire safety and engage with the fire department.
Remember, being prepared can make all the difference in an emergency. So take the time to check your fire extinguishers, familiarize yourself with the PASS method, and most importantly, stay engaged with our local fire department initiatives. Together, we can build a safer Garland.
