Recruit training programme
The current recruit training course is of 12 weeks duration comprising both theory and practical training. This is a residential live in course based in Rotorua. All trainees are required to reside with the other trainees for this period. During weekends trainees are free to travel home at their own cost. Public holidays are observed during the 12 weeks. All costs for accommodation and meals are met by the New Zealand Fire Service. Regular theory and practical assessments are conducted during the course to ensure that trainees are meeting the required competency levels at the various stages of the course.
Topics covered include:
- Organisational structure, vision and mission statements
- Fire Science
- Breathing Apparatus
- Hose and Ladder Drills
- Building construction
- Community Fire Safety/risk plans/trial evacuations
- Presentations and education
- Smoke alarm advice and installation
- Fire safety promotions
- Hazardous materials
- General Rescue, and Urban Search and Rescue (USAR)
- Motor vehicle accidents
- First Aid
- Cultural awareness
- Risk management
- Fire attack
- Knots and Lines
- Extinguishers
- Portable pumps and Portable dams
- Foam
- Realistic Fire Training (RFTB)
- Ventilation and salvage
- Rural firefighting
The nature of the course is that of a disciplined, hierarchical organisation with trainees expected to demonstrate a high level of commitment to meeting the course objectives. As a result trainees often put in additional hours assisting each other in both theory and practical studies. As representatives of the New Zealand Fire Service high standards of personal appearance and self discipline are expected.
Trainees need to prepare both physically and mentally for the rigours of a demanding and intense training period. Candidates who are deemed to be struggling with the course load will be offered additional tuition and training outside the normal course hours of 0800 to 1730 hours, Monday to Friday. Although the course outcomes are demanding the Fire Service trainers give their undertaking to provide a professional and supportive environment that is fair, honest, ethical and treats all individuals with respect and dignity so that everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential within the bounds of the course.