The Taconite Harbor public water access was the site of a live-fire burn training hosted by the Tofte, Schroeder, and Lutsen volunteer fire departments on Saturday, May 6, that attracted the participation of about 30 local firefighters and emergency officials. The training was the last step in the Firefighter Level 1 & 2 certification process for 10 new firefighters in the county.
“We are proud to welcome these 10 new firefighters to the fire service and their respective departments,” said Chief Rich Nelson, Tofte Volunteer Fire Department, and incident commander for the exercise. “We couldn’t have asked for a better day and this was a great opportunity for local departments to come together, pool our resources, and train jointly.”
Along with the live-burn simulation unit contracted through Fire Instruction & Rescue Education (F.I.R.E.) out of Crosslake, Minn., area fire departments had nine various fire truck and emergency responder apparatus on site to assist with the half-day training exercise.
“On behalf of Cook County and our emergency services, I extend sincere appreciation to these individuals for their dedication to their communities and fellow citizens by becoming part of their volunteer fire departments,” said Valerie Marasco, director of the Office of Emergency Management & Public Information. “I’m pleased to congratulate our 10 new firefighters on completion of their extensive training.”
The following individuals completed their Firefighter 1 & 2 certification on May 8: Kim Jahnke, Tofte; Stephen Gray, Lutsen; Brandon Gillespie, Lutsen; Jim Wallner, Grand Marais; Ashley Curtis, Maple Hill; Kyle Stover, Maple Hill; Nick Bonin, Schroeder; Charlie Bonin, Schroeder; Joel Bonin, Schroeder; and Bradley VanDoren, Lutsen.
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