The newest generation of firefighters in central Pennsylvania will be partaking in serious training earlier than ever after 21 fire companies in the area banded together to launch an initiative that will train and develop firefighters with live-burn training starting at 17.
The coalition of fire companies, named the Capital Region Council of Governments (CapCOG), held a press conference on Wednesday at HACC announcing the “100-Teens-to-Lifesavers Challenge,” which will allow local fire departments to prepare 17-year-olds with previously restricted live-burn training. Live-burn and interior firefighting training for volunteer firefighters under 18 was prohibited until Act 155 was signed into law in January 2023. Now, 17-year-old junior firefighters will need the permission of their parents and fire chief before participating in any live-burn training.