The hazmat technician units, consisting of 25 to 30 firefighters, are based at three existing companies: Engine Company 44 on the Upper East Side, Engine Company 274 in Astoria, Queens, and Engine Company 165 on Staten Island.
The 80-hour advanced training course ``further demonstrates the commitment the Fire Department has to providing the people of New York with the best protection against the new threats we now face,'' said Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta.
``They will also enhance and decentralize the department's response to multiple incidents involving hazardous materials and life safety operations.''
Since Sept. 11, 2001, the Fire Department has trained more than 700 members in advanced hazardous materials operations, increasing their numbers from 430 to more than 1,100.
