School is back in session, and the members of the CFPD are hard at work — hitting the books and sharpening their skills. With this training, our members can get back out there providing the high level of care our community depends on.

As September comes to a close, our crews are getting back into the groove — both in the classroom and out in the field.

Because when it comes to protecting our community… skills aren’t just important, they’re like, really freakin’ sweet skills.

Captain’s Process and Lieutenant Eligibility List

CFPD has officially posted an internal promotion process for a Captain’s position. The member selected for this promotion will take on a vital leadership role, directing our rapidly evolving Training Division, overseeing the Department Safety Program, and providing leadership to Lieutenants and Firefighters during incidents.

The application window closed on September 26, 2025, and the process will continue into October with written testing and an interview phase.

Alongside the Captain’s process, CFPD is also establishing a Lieutenant Eligibility List for any future openings. This list will remain valid for a full calendar year. Like the Captain, Lieutenants play a key role in managing personnel, both on incidents and within the station. Candidates will go through a similar testing and interview process in October to earn their spot on the list.

September Trainings

Another month brought more valuable training opportunities for our department.

Coordinated Fire Attack

For our first training of the month, members put all their skills from this year to the test with a Coordinated Fire Attack.
Our crews worked on pulling lines and conducting a fire attack while simultaneously performing a search. This training emphasized the importance of staying calm in the chaos, a key mindset during high-stress situations. As we move deeper into the fall, we’ll continue to build on these repetitions and strengthen our response.

EMS Training – Case Studies

For EMS training this month, we reviewed real medical calls run within Rock County. The goal of these case studies is quality control, and ensuring our care remains top-notch. By working with Beloit Memorial Hospital and our medical direction, we’re able to evaluate and improve the product we deliver on the ambulance. Reviewing these cases helps our members learn from one another’s experiences and provide the best care possible.

Pumping & Porta-Tank Operations

For our final training of September, we shifted gears and gave our members a physical break while focusing on fundamentals.
With many of our members currently enrolled in the Driver/Operator Course, this session provided extra reps on pumping operations and porta-tank setups. It was a great way to refine these essential skills and help our members gain confidence behind the pump panel.

Looking Ahead

September was a month of growth, dedication, and preparation for the CFPD. From sharpening skills in the classroom to putting them into action in the field, our members continue to build the foundation needed to serve our community at the highest level.

As we move into October, we look forward to welcoming new leadership through our promotional processes and continuing to challenge ourselves with meaningful, hands-on training. With each call, drill, and lesson learned, we strengthen not only our department but also the trust our community places in us every day.

Here’s to another month of hard work, teamwork, and — of course — building some really freakin’ sweet skills. Vote for Pedro.