Fire Initiatives (Chief Andy Etzel)
Training Facility Development
Our Training facility is a vital asset—not only for the Plymouth Fire Department but also for our neighboring agencies through mutual aid training. This facility provides a safe, controlled environment for firefighters to practice high-risk, low-frequency operations such as high-rise rescues, ladder work, smoke conditions, and confined space maneuvers.
We are committed to the continued development of this facility to ensure realistic, high-quality training for our personnel and regional partners. Planned enhancements include facility and equipment upgrades, scenario expansion, and safety improvements designed to mirror real-world challenges. These investments directly contribute to firefighter readiness and community safety by improving response effectiveness and coordination.
Funding request: $40,000 over the next several years to support ongoing upgrades and development of the Training facility.
Training
In an evolving world, modern firefighting demands continuous education and professional growth. Ongoing training ensures our fire instructors and firefighters remain sharp, informed, and resilient—better equipped to protect both themselves and the community they serve.
To sustain this standard of excellence, we seek support to send fire instructors to one of the nation’s premier training events, the Fire Department Instructor Conference (FDIC). This conference provides hands-on learning, leadership development, and exposure to the latest techniques, technologies, and safety practices in the fire service.
Funding Request: $5,000 in 2026 and $5,000 in 2027 to support instructor attendance at FDIC and the continued advancement of our training program
Forcible Entry Training Prop
This forceable entry training prop will allow Firefighters and Police Officers to practice breaching doors and other barriers in a controlled, safe environment, replicating the challenges they face during real emergency incidents. Training on a realistic prop allows personnel to refine techniques, increase speed and efficiency, and reduce the liklihood of injury during emergency operations. Improved forcible entry skills ensure faster access to people in life-threatening situations, quicker fire suppression, and overall safer operations for both the public and first responders.
Funding Request: $7,000
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Plymouth Crime and Fire Prevention is a nonprofit organization. Your support directly funds critical safety initiatives and life-saving education programs in our community.