Glenmoor and Calcutta firefighters work on transferring hoses from an older engine to GVFD’s new engine while training on training on how to operate the engine. (Photos by Kristi R. Garabrandt)

GLENMOOR — Glenmoor firefighters are working to get the firefighters trained on the department’s new Engine 33 so they can get it in service.

With the engine having several upgraded features not on the current ones, such as an automatic pumping system with presets that allow the pump to be automatically set for the size hose connected to it, the firefighters need time to get familiar with the new features and are regularly training on it at the station and will soon have it out for training as well.

The presets will help the firefighters get a line/hose setup faster and help eliminate human error in setting the amount of pressure to the hose.

Firefighters are also getting familiar with the truck’s foam supply. According to Capt. Derrick Smith, this is the first engine the department has had that has onboard foam. In the past, if firefighters needed to use foam, they would have to get it out of the conductor and pour it using 5-gallon pails.

Another feature on the new truck firefighters are learning is being able to hook lines to both sides and allow the transfer of water from one engine to another.

Smith said driver training will begin soon and his goal is to have the engine ready to be put into service by the beginning of next month.

Recently several firefighters from Calcutta Volunteer Fire Department joined Glenmoor firefighters to help them train on the engine and transfer hoses from an older engine to the new one.

In addition to training, the department has made several personnel changes due to promotions. Matthew Bowling was promoted to second captain making room for John Dear to be promoted to first lieutenant, Tyler Frazier to second lieutenant and Kevin Mackey to third lieutenant. The promotions are effective Nov. 1.

kgarabrandt@mojonews.com