Two of the Montana City Volunteer Fire Department newest firefighters recently observed pump operations conducted by trained and experienced MCVFD firefighters during Static Water Supply training at MCVFD Station 1. Jacob Quinn, (far left) studies the finer points of operating the fire engine pump, while Luke Ferguson (right at tank) watches the water level climb in the portable water tank in order to signal the water tender operator (out of sight) when to stop filling. The dark hose going into the portable tank is sucking water into the fire engine tank for another firefighter (not shown) to release through a 2 1/2” hose nozzle. Fire department training tests the equipment and procedures used so members are prepared to efficiently and safely fight fires. The initial portion of the evening’s training — dropping the tank, getting the draft hose off the truck and into the tank and pumping water is just one of many timed tests to be conducted by the Insurance Safety Organization (ISO) when agents visit in late September. Many insurance companies use ISO ratings when determining home insurance rates. In 2016 the Montana City ISO rating fell from a Split Class 7/9 to Class 5, resulting in lower premiums for many homeowners. Not all insurance companies use ISO ratings when determining their rates. (Bridget Weigel/Boulder Monitor)
