HOWELL, NJ – The Monmouth County Fire Academy graduated 56 firefighters from the Firefighter I program this week. Graduates were divided into two classes: Class 98 graduated May 21 and Class 99 graduated May 22. Both ceremonies were held at the Fire Academy on Route 33.

Graduates worked 188 hours over 30 sessions and received training in rescue, fire extinguishment, hazardous materials response, cardio-pulmonary resuscitation, electrical safety, and care of hoses, ladders and other equipment. 

“Tonight, you become members of one of American’s greatest creations – organized firefighting,” Freeholder Director John P. Curley said in his address to Class 98. “Modern-day firefighting is much different. Not only is your equipment updated, but you are required to do so much more. You don’t just fight fires. You will be required to respond to all sort of emergencies, like first aid calls, traffic accidents, hazardous materials spills and, yes, even terrorist acts.”