No.10 Viewing the Fire Brigade Firefighting Skills Examination

(Inagi Newsletter August 15, 2012 issue)

On Sunday, July 15, 2012, a judging committee was held at the North Green Park parking lot.
"The fire point is the target ahead, the water supply is from the water tank behind the pump truck on the right, extend the double-wrapped hose line, board!" With a loud voice from the conductor and a sense of tension, four team members swiftly began firefighting activities.
Firefighting drills are a procedure to ensure a command system at a fire scene that can be chaotic due to crowds and noise, allowing for accurate operations through repeated practice of a series of operational methods until they become second nature. While some areas use portable pumps, Inagi City conducts pump truck drills using fire pump vehicles. This used to be held annually, but it is now every other year.
The term of office for fire brigade members is two years, and this year is a re-election year. Each division is welcoming many new members, which brings vitality, but it is also a time when practical experience is lacking. Therefore, starting training immediately after the April re-election of members is very important for ensuring the safety of new members.
This judging committee marks the 27th time since the first was held in 1971. Many predecessors have overcome rigorous training to improve their skill levels. The firefighting drills in Inagi City have evolved with each iteration and have reached a level that can win top prizes at the Tokyo Firefighting Drill Competition.
In this judging committee, the 5th division (Sakahama) won, achieving a consecutive victory, and the content was impressive based on last year's experience in the Tokyo competition. I have heard that the divisions below second place also performed wonderfully with their brisk practical skills, and the scoring results were very close.
It was a day that made me proud as an alumnus to see the young members firmly inheriting the good traditions of the Inagi City Fire Brigade, which is disciplined, brave, and has high morale.
To all the members, thank you for your hard work and for the inspiration!