When things heat up, Corey Weir accepts the challenge – flames and all. The Chartiers Valley junior is a participant in Kirwan Heights Volunteer Fire Department’s weekly training program where he works towards becoming a volunteer firefighter.This program provides fire simulations and other safety training exercises to prepare future fire fighters to approach any situation skillfully.
“The fire department would have control of abandoned houses and we would smoke the houses out, practice searches and practice forcible entry,” said Corey. “Other times we just practice fundamental things like advancing a hose line.”
Corey said the program is challenging, but it also has its perks.
“It is hard work and you must be able to work with other people because you have to rely on them,” explained Corey. “It is a great activity to be a part of because it is fun, requires a lot of hard work and you have the opportunity to save lives once you turn 18.”
Although Corey is training hard, he will not be able to fully participate in all the responsibilities of a volunteer firefighter until he turns 18.
“I can go out on calls with the department, I'm just limited in what I can do until I'm 18. I can't go into a burning building. I'm not allowed to use the power tools on scene for say a car accident, but I am allowed to use those tools for training purposes,” he explained.
Along with that, the department has business meetings in addition to firefighter training to get trainees familiar with all facets of a volunteer fire department.
Corey decided to join the Kirwan Heights Volunteer Fire Department training program to complement his Law Enforcement career goals.
“I've wanted to join a fire department for a while now. I started in September of 2014 and plan to continue for [a few] years.” said Corey.
Currently he attends Parkway West Career and Technology Center to accelerate his career path while attending CVHS.
“I'm [going to Parkway] more for the training. I'm not really looking at a firefighter career path,” said Corey. “I am looking at a law enforcement career path, but I do enjoy the idea of being able to help people out on my own time.”
Corey isn’t the only one in his family who is passionate about helping others.
“On my dad's side of the family there are a lot of uncles and cousins that are part of a fire department in Somerset,” he said.
As for certifications, the fire department offers many exercises and training opportunities, but Corey can only receive formal certifications at Parkway.
Looking forward, Corey believes this training has opened many doors for him to help others in the future.
“[I like] being able to help people. That's the biggest thing for me,” he said. “I enjoy helping people and being prepared to save them if that ever needs to happen.”
