Hopkinton Firefighter Zachary Samborsky Takes Part in Academy Graduation

Hopkinton Firefighter Takes Part in Academy Graduation

The Hopkinton Fire Department was represented at a Massachusetts Firefighting Academy graduation event. The 27 graduates came from 16 fire departments. They completed the academy’s 50-day Career Recruit Training Program.

Photo: MA Department of Fire Services

The training prepares firefighters to respond to emergencies in Hopkinton and across the region. Graduates learn to work with veteran firefighters in their own departments. They also train to assist neighboring communities through mutual aid.

Training for the Job

Recruits studied core firefighting skills in the classroom and through practical exercises. They practiced first without fire. Then they trained in controlled fire conditions.

The exercises covered search and rescue, ladder operations, water supply, and pump operation. Recruits also practiced fire attack. Scenarios ranged from small mailbox fires to fires in multi-room or multi-floor buildings.

Firefighters respond to more than fires. They may handle gas leaks, chemical spills, or suspected carbon monoxide. Firefighters often rescue people trapped in a crashed vehicle or stuck in an elevator. They may also respond when a child falls through ice.

Recruits learned to inspect and maintain equipment. That includes breathing apparatus, hydrants, hoses, and power tools. Firefighters must keep this gear ready for emergencies.

Serving Hopkinton and Neighboring Towns

The academy also taught fire behavior and suppression tactics. Recruits studied hazardous materials, flammable liquids, and public fire education. They also learned stress management and self-rescue techniques.

Graduates met national firefighter qualification standards. They earned Firefighter I/II and Hazardous Materials First Responder Operations certifications.

Training Supports Hopkinton’s Emergency Response

It also helps local firefighters coordinate with neighboring departments when incidents require additional help. The academy trains career, call, and volunteer firefighters at campuses in Stow, Springfield, and Bridgewater.