Multiple Agency ARFF Training

On March 14th, 2025 the Inaugural Regional Training Center Course from South Metro Fire Rescue was held with a three-day Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) initial certification course at the South Metro Fire Rescue Regional Training Center. The inaugural class included firefighters from South Metro Fire Rescue, Bennett-Watkins Fire Rescue and Larkspur Fire Protection District. With over 70 general aviation airports in Colorado, South Metro Fire Rescue aims to provide this critical training for its own departments and those in nearby districts with airport responsibilities. The course, designed to provide comprehensive training in aircraft firefighting, is open to local and regional fire departments, helping ensure that emergency responders are fully equipped to handle emergencies at airports and beyond. The program focuses on state certification for ARFF and is working toward achieving FAA Part 139 certification. Participants are trained in critical air crash rescue and firefighting skills, covering a broad curriculum on aircraft support and firefighting techniques, specialized training with an expert in pumps, foam, and air crash apparatus, and hands-on experience in putting out various aircraft fires, including engine, brake, fuselage, and compartment fires, through live-fire scenarios. The course is designed to ensure that firefighters can differentiate between the unique challenges of aircraft firefighting compared to structural or automobile fires. The practical and written tests at the end of the course confirm that participants are fully prepared for real-world emergencies. Eight members of Bennett-Watkins Fire Rescue completed 40 hours of intensive Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) training, including classroom instruction and live burn simulations which will prepare the department to respond to emergencies at the Colorado Air & Space Port. Additional information provided by South Metro Fire Rescue