S.F.E.S.A: QUALIFY & EQUIPPED OFFICERS CERTIFIED
S.F.E.S.A Commissioner Tanuvasa Petone Mauga presented the certificates.
Photo: Eyespy Radio / Anetone Sagaga
The Samoa Fire & Emergency Services Authority (S.F E.S.A) have elevated 27 leading firefighters, after a hectic 1 week training, certifying them for their skills and knowledge when approaching rescue missions while out in the field.
There were 12 firefighters who were initially proposed for the training , but the Authority seeked to expand to a few more potential members and added them to the programme. Four members were from the Maota Fire Station in the big island of Savaii.
The crew underwent a series of training they've participated in. This is to help enhance their understanding when they are face to face with emergency scenarios.
Samoa Fire & Emergency Crew members have collected much more safer procedures to ensure operations are done in a flow process during danger.
According to Commander Kereta Samia who conducted training on the qualified firefighters , he stated that panicking is one emotion that can trigger mistakes when in hazardous situations."This training focused heavily on ensuring that our firefighters are calm and well prepared in any task thrown their way" he stated.
Certified SFESA officers
Photo: Eyespy Radio / Anetone Sagaga
He further added that knowing the right tools to use at the right time was one essential role they had to execute in the programme."Understanding the tools needed for the field is very vital. The crew needs to know how to use the hydraulic pumps , truck operations ,filling hydro tanks , ladder operations , speed contact , axe , and many more tools at the time it is needed." he added.Commander Kereta Samia also mentioned that one of the many struggles they've experienced was mechanical issues in pumping water out of the tanks on and off the field.
"This is why this training exists , because we've come across situations like hydraulic pumps failing at the scene. People have complained saying fire-trucks have arrived with no water but actually the pumps were either stuck or poorly operated." he said.A small ceremony was held at the S.F E.S.A Head-quaters in Apia on Friday last week.
The Commissioner & Deputy Commissioner for the Fire Services attended and spoke upon the qualifiers about the significance of their services for the Samoa community.S.F.E.S.A Commissioner Tanuvasa Petone Mauga highlighted in his speech the importance of understanding how to operate the mechanics and equipment needed to get the job done."Sometimes we have to learn how to fix our tools because when disaster emerges , it's a convenient feeling knowing that tools are available and ready to be used." Tanuvasa stated."Understanding the tools makes the job much easier , rather than being uncertain.
Also providing top safety service for the community is our priority " he added.In congratulation , the Commissioner acknowledged the commitment and hard work of the firefighters and thanked them for their dedication to the field . Each was awarded with a certificate , legitimizing their experiences and skills as a frontline firefighter operator.
The ceremony came with a double celebration on the same day. The Authority also celebrated their Men's Paddling Team who won in the Inter-Ministry Renewable Energy Regatta this year. This is the first time S.F.E.S.A has ever entered a paddling competition and surpassed expectations. The Men's team came in first place & the Women's in 3rd placing.