Description: This program encompasses all prerequisites to meet the requirements of Pennsylvania State and National Certification for　Pumper Driver/Operator. Subjects include emergency vehicle operations, maintenance and inspection　procedures, fire service hydraulics, and placement of　pumping apparatus at fire scenes, instruction in the　basic methods of water movement in the rural area. Tank trucks and large diameter hose are utilized. The NFPA 1002 Standard for Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator Professional Qualifications identifies the minimum requirements for firefighters who drive and operate fire apparatus in both emergency and non-emergency situations.

In addition to pumper driver/operator training, Emergency Vehicle Operator Training (EVOT) will be covered as well. EVOT is a 16-hour classroom-based program with outdoor practical work. Civil, criminal, and punitive damages and charges may become a part of your vocabulary if one of your vehicles is involved in a crash that injures or kills one of your staff members, a patient, or a civilian vehicle operator/pedestrian. The program also prepares operators to become better professional emergency vehicle operators when it involves their own personal safety of their crew, their patient, and the community they are serving.

Those students who meet the prerequisites and successfully complete the course will be eligible to test for Pennsylvania State and National Certification as Driver/Operator - Pumper　Apparatus.

Training Audience: Anyone who in the course of their duties is responsible for the operation of a pumper apparatus.

Prerequisite(s): A valid Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Driver’s License. Student must be 18 years-of-age on the first day of class. Students must have access to a Class-A Pumper.　

Course Length: 44-hours

Certification: Pennsylvania State Fire Academy Pumps I and Pumps II and EVOT certificates will be issued upon successful completion of the course. Special Notes:　Students not meeting the requirements　for National Driver/Operator - Pumper testing may attend　the course and will receive the state certificates listed.

Textbook: International Fire Service Training Association (IFSTA) Pumping Apparatus Driver/Operator Handbook, 3nd Edition. Textbook will be provided in class.

Equipment Needs: Pen / pencil, note-taking material. Full turnout gear. Students must be able to　provide a Class-A Pumper for use during practical skills evolutions. 100% attendance is required for successful completion of the course.　

Pennsylvania Department of Health Continuing Education Hours: 16 hours (EVOT training)

Course Contact: Matt Fink, Fire Training Manager, (610) 344-5017 or via email at jfink@chesco.org.