Pictured Left To Right: Barry Rogers Jr. (MFD, Lead Instructor), Jimmy Smith (MFD), Bobby Cavin (CFD), Karen Bobo (MFD), Deric Guice (CBFD), Dalton Kerr (MFD), Dustin Kerr (MFD), Jason Stewart (CBFD), and Rich Lindsey (MFD). Not Pictured: Tim Deaton (MFD) and Assistant Instructors Shawn Rogers (CBFD), Nick Whorton (Centre Fire Department), and Kevin Ware (Rome Fire Department).

According to McCord’s Fire Department (MFD) Chief Rich Lindsey, several of Cherokee County’s firefighters recently completed a Fire Service Instructor I course. Instructor I, as it is commonly called, is a course designed to teach certified volunteer firefighters to effectively deliver instruction to other firefighters. The Alabama Fire College class was taught by MFD Assistant Chief Barry Rogers, Jr., a local instructor. The class was sponsored by the Cherokee County Association of Volunteer Fire Departments and MFD.

Nine students completed the course. They included representatives from McCord’s Fire Department (MFD), Cedar Bluff Fire Department (CBFD), and Cloudland Fire Department (CFD). The course consisted of 40 hours of instruction, a written test, and practical evaluations. Those who completed the course are now eligible to teach Alabama Fire College and other courses to local firefighters. Because the Alabama Fire College and Personnel Standards Commission is accredited by the National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications (ProBoard) and the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC), students received an elite certification that is recognized nationwide.

Chief Lindsey said, “Having more certified instructors within the county will enhance our training programs, thus improving the fire and rescue services provided to the citizens of Cherokee County.” He went on to say that the dedication and professionalism shown by the firefighters who completed this course highlights the selfless commitment of the individuals who serve in Cherokee County’s volunteer fire departments.