Just started hazmat tech.

[resqtek]

Today was the first day of the technician course. The first week is all chemistry. Then we have 3 weeks in training and six months worth of study material and tests which have to be submitted. What did I get myself into!!

[RspctFrmCalgary]

YUCK!!

Good luck, resqtek! You can do it!!! Just think of the reward at the end

[resqtek]

I'm still a little unclear as to what that reward is.

[ADSNWFLD]

If the science guys did their job in picking a suit, the reward is being in the safest place at the incident. Not being stuck and forgotten in decon is nice also.

Good luck I think you'll like it

[SCSESATech]

I felt the same way about EMT class this month. If you got science people around to work out your options, things are simplified a lot and you will mostly concentrate on flowing the plan and staying on your toes if the plan does not work. I would suggest some training software at knightlite.com on Hazmat. What book do you have? I brought the interactive CD to managing the incident. Both are good resources and are less than $35 online. I am still trying to learn the APD2000, M256 and Hazcat. I just don't get enough time to play with them.

Good luck in the class.

[RspctFrmCalgary]

I'm still a little unclear as to what that reward is.

I just KNEW you were going to call me on that one!!

OK here's one for now .... how 'bout "Pride in your accomplishment" (for finishing the course, for all you will have learned)

[Fireknight923]

I am a specialist and instructor you will make it through and when you do you will see the rewards.


Erik

[jcasey]

I took the Ohio HMT a few months ago. Now I'm just waiting for some time with the team. The course was mostly powerpoint. I need to get my hands on some chlorine kits and monitors. Train like you work, right? Working in the suit was easier than I thought. Any ideas or input would be welcome. What books would anyone recommend? I have lots of time to read. Jason

[BrianGa]

I just finished the New Jersey State Police Hazmat Technician level 3 course (80 hour). As the course went on, I had an excellent time and never minded going to class. The instructors were superb and the hands-on activities and practical scenarios were perfect. I'm sure you'll enjoy your class. Best of luck.

Brian

[sbfd289]

Haz mat isn't always the best of worlds but it sure has it's interesting moments. You'll get through the haz mat class just fine. Just make sure you keep at it. There are other special classes you can take once you've completed it. I recommend ,to anyone that hasn't gone yet, to go to anniston alabama. The training they provide there is the best I've ever seen.

[Eric20]

Thanks for the kind words sbfd289. Here is a link to some information about the training provided at the Center for Domestic Preparedness in Anniston, AL.

http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/odp/ta/training.htm

Eric

[ff7134]

The reward is knowing that you are not only crazy enough to run into a burning building. But you will go into unkown chemical spills that the nearest back up is a ways away!!!! God its great

[FireRescue1307]

The reward is being in yet another branch of fire/rescue and furthering your education. I too am on a haz mat team and being in with a university community and 2 maj interstates makes it neat.
I will be advancing to your position soon enfough and besides...Those gas masks I have at home are becoming more handy every day